Messi's great dilemma

Barca forward is yet to decide on his international future

Posted Thursday, August 23, 2018 by Marca.com

Following Argentina's dismal performance at the World Cup in Russia, Lionel Messi has taken his time to assess his future with the Albiceleste as he faces a monumental dilemma.

Messi wants time to make his decision and nobody yet knows what he will do, not even the forward himself.

Messi's great dilemma

Argentinean football is in a state of flux at this moment with Jorge Sampaoli having been dismissed from his post after the tournament.

Lionel Scaloni has been appointed as caretaker coach to oversee proceedings until a permanent appointment is made.

Messi won't be called for the upcoming friendly matches, however this is nothing new, but he could well call time on his competitive international career after mulling over a similar quandary in 2016.

Defeat in the 2016 Copa America final to Chile left the Barcelona icon heartbroken and he confirmed his retirement from international football, although he would later return to help the team qualify for the 2018 World Cup.

The 31-year-old felt he rushed the decision and made it based on the emotion of losing the final, and he hasn't been willing to repeat such a mistake this time around.

It's a very important, personal decision, especially when he would retire having never carried Argentina to an international title.

The summer of 2019 will include the Copa America which will be played in Brazil, and Messi will make a decision before the turn of the year on whether or not he'll be present at the tournament.