Is this the end of the Lionel Messi Argentina dance? The Barcelona star was not in the South American's side roster during their friendly win against Germany. This left many of his compatriots asking, is he abandoning the team? It also didn't help that some Spanish reports added gasoline to the fire saying Lionel Messi is focusing only on his club.
Spain's Marca wrote:
"Leo Messi is seriously considering the idea of not playing in any more friendlies for his country for all this season, as he is wanting to concentrate all his efforts on playing for Barcelona and getting back some of his old magic. 'La Pulga' is not turning his back on Argentina, but rather just wants to lessen his commitment to them, dropping out of the friendlies until 2015, when the Copa Ámerica will be held. In the next months, Argentina will play against Germany, Brazil and Hong Kong. At AFA, there exists some concern. Although they understand Messi's reasoning, his absence will result in a substantial loss of money, as the amount paid out in the games depends on the Argentine star's participation. His possible non-involvement is causing quite a stir back in his home country."
This is not the first time that the Lionel Messi Argentina relationship was tainted. Before the four-time Ballon d'Or won the 2014 FIFA World Cup Golden Shoe, he was criticized back in his hometown, being often referred as an Argentine-Spanish player because of his decision to join the Barcelona youth school in 2004. He proved that his heart is still with Argentina by rejecting Spain's invitation to play for their Under-20 team. Messi sure did prove that he loves his country. Still, because of his decision to not join the recent friendly, he's back on the same situation.
However, for new coach Gerardo Martino, who also worked with Messi in Barcleona in 2013-14 La Liga season, those silly reports from Spain are not true. He believes that the Lionel Messi Argentina is still on and going strong.
"When you get to coach a player like Leo it is very difficult to keep away from the comments which can circulate. In Catalonia it was said that he was minding himself for the World Cup, but he ended up scoring 30 La Liga goals. Now this happened [the injury], he is not coming with the team and the rumours start again. Unfortunately sometimes it is up to us coaches to clear up these rumours. It is tiring," Martino said as per Argentine outlet Ole.
For Messi's caliber and superstar status, one move he makes will surely attract attention, a lot of stories will be made. Unless it comes from him, no story is genuine.
