Barcelona star Lionel Messi is expected to return to Argentina’s national team on March 22, when he will play in a friendly match against Venezuela after nearly nine months out of the squad.
The 31-year-old has not represented his country since the defeat against Argentina 4-3, in the 1/8 phase of the Champions League final. He had decided to focus on his career with Barcelona.
Initially, he had doubts that he might eventually retire from Argentine national team, but then he was reported that he would return to the national team in 2019.
“I do not speak often with Messi, but we have some kind of connection. We are trying to turn him into the team in 2019, we will talk and be optimistic that the result will be positive. For us, this is important. Every coach would like to train him, I more than others, “said Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni in December.
Messi has not yet confirmed the date of his return, but the international football website, Goal.com, reports that he will be back in March for the match between Argentina and Venezuela. This match will take place at Atletico Madrid Stadium, Wanda Metropolitano.
Messi has made 128 appearances for Argentina’s national team since August 2005 when he debuted. Only Javier Macherano (147) and Javier Zanetti (143) have more appearances than Messi for Argentina.
However, Barcelona star is the best scorer in Argentina’s history with 65 goals scored. In second position Gabriel Batistuta ranks 54 goals and in third place Sergio Aguero with 39 goals.
