Lionel Messi is set to make a sensational return to the Argentina national team in 2019 for the Copa América.
Marca reports that the 31-year-old Argentina captain has decided that it is not the right time to end his international career, despite the shocking performance of La Albiceleste at the FIFA World Cup in the summer.
Claudio Tapia, the president of the Argentine FA, has revealed that he met with the Barcelona talisman at the 2018 Copa Libertadores final between Boca Juniors and River Plate.
The 51-year-old Argentine had a 'brief' meeting with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, though it was not a lengthy conversation on the topic.
"Leo never left the national team, so I have no doubt that he will return when he is called up," he said.
According to the Spanish newspaper, Messi wanted some time away from the international team before he made his future clear.
It is added that the Barça star will not be playing in any intentional friendlies before the tournament. In fact, it is expected that he will be returning at the Copa América in June.
Marca claims that Messi wants to focus on helping his club progress in the Champions League, then his 'attention will [be guiding] Argentina to success.'
Advert
SPORTbible reported in October that Barcelona legend Xavi suggested that Messi, who recently said that he would like to work with Pep Guardiola again, would make his return to the national team someday.
"Yes, I think he'll return, why not?" he told Super Deportivo de Villa Trinidad.
"Sooner or later he'll want to return because he's a very competitive person, he's a competitive beast.
"He needs some time to reflect and rest, and in the end it's his decision.
"He's the best player in the world, and I believe the best player in history, he will have the last word and he'll want to try and win with Argentina."
Is Messi making the right decision?
Advert
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football News, Football, Lionel Messi, FIFA World Cup, Ballon d'Or, Argentina, Copa America, Barca