"No Issues for Messi"... Argentine Media Denies Final Match Absence Rumors

Messi, Official Training Absence Sparks Speculation
Likely No Issue for World Cup Final Appearance

Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrating after scoring the opening goal against Croatia in the 2022 Qatar World Cup semifinal. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Lee Gyehwa] Recent reports that Lionel Messi (35, Paris Saint-Germain), who missed the official training of the Argentina national team due to a hamstring injury, will participate normally in the World Cup final have emerged.

On the 16th (Korean time), Argentine media 'Clar?n' reported, "Messi did rehabilitation exercises together with the players who participated in the semi-final against Croatia."

They added, "Messi's left hamstring injury is fine, and there is no problem facing Kylian Mbapp? (22, France), his teammate at Paris Saint-Germain."

Earlier, British media 'Express' reported, "Argentina captain Messi missed Thursday's training due to a hamstring issue," adding, "He is not at 100% condition with three days left before the World Cup final against France. He also complained of hamstring discomfort during the semi-final against Croatia."

Messi, who played full-time in every match, was frequently seen touching his left hamstring during the semi-final against Croatia on the 14th. He played the entire match, recording 1 goal and 1 assist, easing concerns about his injury, but his absence from subsequent team training raised the possibility of injury again.

Although Messi did not participate in training due to the hamstring injury, it is expected that there will be no problem with his participation in the World Cup. French media 'Foot Mercato' reported regarding Messi's participation, "No one in Argentina is worried about injuries," adding, "The Argentine players will play holding their breath. After the semi-final against Croatia, Messi gave assurance in the mixed zone that everything is fine."

Messi has recorded 5 goals and 3 assists in this World Cup, leading the tournament in goals, assists, and total offensive points. The 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup final between Argentina and France will be held at Lusail Stadium in Qatar at midnight on the 19th.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.