Argentine star Lionel Messi will not participate in the men’s football competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 36-year-old striker made a difficult decision and will focus on the upcoming Copa America and his club career with Miami International in the Major League Soccer (MLS).

Messi, who helped Argentina win the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, expressed regret for missing the Paris Olympics, but he believes that the intensity of competing in two major competitions is a bit too much for his current age. The Copa America will be held in the United States from June 20 to July 14. If Argentina can reach the final, the final will be held in Miami, just 10 days before the opening of the Paris Olympic men’s football competition.

The intensive schedule and consideration of club responsibilities are the main reasons for Messi’s withdrawal. He joined Miami International in 2023 and is currently adapting to the MLS schedule. The league is held in the summer, and if he participates in the Olympics, he will miss many club games, which worries him.

Messi said in an interview with ESPN Argentina: “I talked to coach Mascherano and we both understand each other’s situation. It’s already hard to participate in the America’s Cup, and if you add the Olympics, it means that I can’t play for the club for two or three consecutive months. To be honest, I’m too old to do everything.”

Despite this, Messi still expressed his yearning for the Olympics: “I have to choose the events carefully. It’s too stressful for me to participate in two major competitions in a row. I was very lucky to participate in the Olympics and won the gold medal with Mascherano. It was a wonderful football experience. The Olympics and other events are completely different and unique.”

Messi’s absence undoubtedly weakened the strength of the Argentine U23 men’s football team, but head coach Mascherano will still lead the team to strive for good results. For the majority of fans, we look forward to Messi continuing to bring wonderful performances to the Argentine team in the America’s Cup, and we also wish him success in Miami International.