Messi's Olympic Dilemma: Will He Chase Gold in Paris or Glory in USA?

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has a tricky decision to make after Argentina booked their spot in the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Lionel Messi has an open invitation to join Argentina’s Olympic squad for the upcoming summer games in Paris.

Javier Mascherano, the under-23 coach of Argentina, has said that Messi is ‘always welcome’. He did, though, concede the decision rests on his former teammate and his commitments.

The 39-year-old made these comments after Argentina defeated 2020 gold medalists Brazil 1-0 to secure a place at the Olympics.

Messi has already shown his interest in competing at the 2024 Copa America. This tournament will be held in the United States from June 20 to July 14. It takes place less than two weeks before the Olympics in Paris.

The Olympics may also pose a scheduling conflict with Messi’s club, Inter Miami, as the MLS regular season will be in full swing. This may cause the player to miss several games for the team.

Only time will tell what path Messi will ultimately take.

But the 36-year-old has, at the very least, kept tabs on Argentina’s progress. He even celebrated the under-23 team’s qualification for the Olympics by posting a photo on Instagram, captioned “VAMOS!!!” (LET’S GO!!!).

Javier Mascherano: "Messi at the Olympics? He has open doors from me, it's on him to decide. He congratulated us. We know that Leo is a big fan of the National Team. There will be time to talk." pic.twitter.com/fFGuVOcd5j

— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) February 12, 2024