Having fulfilled the dream of his life, Lionel Messi on Thursday will celebrate with Argentine fans his first match since winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year. More than 80,000 spectators will come to the Monumental Stadium in the Argentine capital. for a friendly match against Panama.
While winning football’s biggest trophy was seen by many as the perfect moment to end his illustrious international career, the 35-year-old Messi felt he had something to offer his country.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said: “Leo (Messi) is fine. Until he says otherwise, he will come here and join the team. He is happy on the field with the national team.