London, January 15, 2024 – Argentina’s football icon, Lionel Messi, is set to miss the prestigious FIFA The Best Awards ceremony in London on Monday, January 15. Contrary to expectations, the maestro has decided to forgo the glitzy event to continue his rigorous training regimen with Inter Miami in the United States.
Reports suggest that Ariel Senosiain, through AlbiecelesteTalk, unveiled Messi’s choice to prioritize training over attending the ceremony. Despite being nominated for The Best Men’s Player, Messi has chosen to remain committed to maintaining peak fitness and performance levels with his American club.
Messi’s absence is particularly notable after his recent triumph at the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, where he was recognized for his instrumental role in leading Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022. The 36-year-old is once again in contention for another individual accolade, facing stiff competition from Erling Haaland of Manchester City and Kylian Mbappe of Paris Saint-Germain.
While Messi clinched the Ligue 1 title with PSG and the Leagues Cup with Inter Miami in 2023, Haaland’s outstanding contributions to Manchester City’s continental treble make him a formidable opponent. The Norwegian striker secured top scorer accolades in the Champions League and set a new goal-scoring record in the Premier League, potentially overshadowing Messi’s achievements.
In another twist, Messi has received an invitation to join Argentina’s squad for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Despite being an Under-23 event, the Olympics permit a select number of overage players, opening the door for the 36-year-old maestro to participate.
Thiago Almada, Messi’s World Cup teammate, extended the invitation in an interview with Ole, stating, “We are working very well, we have a nice group and great players. Hopefully, we can qualify for Argentina, and then if Messi wants to come, he is welcome.”
While Messi’s potential inclusion in the Olympic squad would undoubtedly boost Argentina’s chances for a gold medal, uncertainties remain as the legendary playmaker remains focused on the upcoming Copa America. The decision to prioritize training over the FIFA awards underscores Messi’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peak performance in the latter stages of his illustrious career.
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