That has turned into something bigger than we thought.
It was expected to be a little thing. But, as everything involving Lionel Messi, it has turned into a huge controversy.
The 27-year-old left Barcelona's game against Villarreal last Sunday with a minor injury, but that was enough to sideline him from the Argentina national team FIFA dates this week. Then, rumors started growing in Leo's home country that the Barça superstar is taking time off from the Albiceleste, and many journalists in Argentina claim that the Blaugrana club basically made up the injury per the request of Messi to make him miss the friendly against Germany on purpose.
After the win against Germany on Wednesday, important pieces of the national team immediately defended him, including his new coach, former Barcelona boss Tata Martino.
"Messi had an injury. It's that simple. He didn't play tonight because of an injury. What's the controversy in that? It's just one game, he's not missing the World Cup. The club is right not to risk him.
He's already used to being talked about when he does anything, good or bad. He's fine with it. The only thing we can do as Argentines is take better care of our idols. Players like Messi only happen every 50 years, and we shouldn't be wasting our time on little things like this, instead we have to appreciate how great he is, at the club and here at the national team.
His intention is always play for the national team and it will always be. I'll never doubt it. He's injured, but he'll come back.
I talked to him right before I made the trip down here. He had an injury. It wasn't serious. He could have played, but it's a friendly and there's no reason to take risks in games like these.
Leo is always compromised with this team and he will always be, because he understands very clearly how important he has become for this particular group."
Sergio Romero (Goalkeeper)
"Just leave him alone. Seriously. He's our captain and I believe in him."
Tata Martino (Coach)
"I have a very good relationship with him since Barcelona. Our dialogue is very clear and respectful. If he's injured, I believe him. There's no reason to create controversy when there isn't any."
Luis Segura (Argentina Football Association President)
"We named him for the squad but then Barcelona's doctors told us he had an injury. Our own doctor will travel to Barcelona to look at him personally."
from Barca Blaugranes - All Posts http://ift.tt/1xeGJhi
0 التعليقات:
إرسال تعليق