The Copa America begins this Monday (IST) with the match between Brazil and Venezuela. However, it would only kick-off provided that Venezuela find themselves capable of fielding a team. They have registered 12 positive COVID-19 cases, and look to be in a dire situation for the competition.
Argentina, led by Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero, begin their campaign against Chile on the next day at the same time. Despite the fact that Aguero has recently joined Barcelona, it is reported that there is no sort of clarity regarding the possibility of Messi extending his contract at the club.
However, in light of Aguero’s big move to the Camp Nou, it is of formidable significance that Messi has missed the presence of a reliable striker at his side in the 2020-21 season. Hence, the curiosity about the potential that this partnership holds could also play a role in Messi’s decision.
Barcelona hold onto the belief that the offer they proposed to Messi and his father a few weeks ago was reasonable, which leads them to hope that it will be concurred upon. The new contract would preferably keep the Argentine playing for Barcelona until the summer of 2023. The all-time great could then be expected to join David Beckham in his endeavours with Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer.
Barcelona would ideally have preferred the deal to be finalized and announced before the commencement of the Copa America. However, they are willing to comply with Messi’s convenience and would prefer to not rush him into a decision.
Messi is expected to wait until after Copa America to make a definitive choice; he will be leading Argentina with the goal of winning the competition after losing two finals in the past. PSG still remain a significant contender to get his signature. However, Messi’s focus right now is on following in the footsteps of the late Diego Maradona and leading Argentina to victory.
