"The 38-year-old was called up by Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni for the country's matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico, but the captain was not in the squad for the 1-0 win over Venezuela on Friday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami with Scaloni revealing he made the decision to leave Messi out of the roster."
"In a rare set of circumstances, Messi was granted permission by his country to play in Miami's penultimate MLS match of the regular season as the team fights for a higher spot in the Eastern Conference table to ensure home-field advantage in the postseason."
""The match will serve as part of the preparation for upcoming commitments and will allow the technical staff to fine-tune details," Argentina said in a statement."
""Leo's return generates great anticipation and promises a spectacular atmosphere for this new international challenge.""
Lionel Messi returned to training with Argentina after being released to play in Inter Miami's MLS game against Atalanta. The 38-year-old had been called up for friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico but was left out of the Venezuela match by manager Lionel Scaloni. Argentina granted Messi permission to appear in Miami's penultimate regular-season MLS match as Inter Miami pursues a higher Eastern Conference position and potential home-field advantage. Javier Mascherano welcomed the possibility of Messi playing but was uncertain if it would happen. Messi scored Miami's first goal in a 4-0 victory that closed Chase Stadium for the club. Argentina indicated the match will serve as preparation and generate anticipation ahead of the next international challenge.
Read at ESPN.com
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