The FIFA international break takes place this upcoming week, with many nations competing for spots in next year’s World Cup in Qatar.
Argentina appears to be well on its way to qualifying for the tournament next year. As a result, the call-up for an injured Lionel Messi confuses pundit Geoffroy Garétier who stated on Late Football Club (via Canal Supporters) that it would’ve been best for Messi to rest this window.
“He will do 20,000 km; his physical form is limited and questionable, then he has a little trouble winning since his arrival at PSG. So, I know very well that Argentina is very important for him and that his Federation is doing the maximum. Since Argentina is in an ideal position to qualify, I think it would have been great if he could take a break, recover and then continue to work to integrate and reach the top with PSG in February- March, where we expect it to be,” Garétier said.
“I know very well that it is sterile as a debate because the players always leave for their national team, but once again, it is totally counterproductive. Argentina is nine points ahead of 5th place in the qualifying group. We know very well that they are already qualified. Let’s not forget that we added a new truce this season at the end of January-beginning of February, where there will be trips again just before the Champions League. This is completely insane.”
Reports suggest that Messi does have a clause where he can prioritize the Argentina national team. The 34-year-old was also in Madrid seeking treatment for the injured hamstring that would help him play in the South American nation’s qualifying fixtures.
Nonetheless, already dealing with a hamstring issue and the possibility of further injuring it, Garétier does bring up a good point. PSG will likely be monitoring what occurs over the international break, but it seems like an unnecessary risk, considering where Argentina is in the standings.
