Why Lionel Messi Will Miss Argentina Friendly Against Indonesia Explained

• Indonesia fans have been left heartbroken ahead of their anticipated friendly against Argentina
• The reigning world champions will play their second friendly during the international break without talisman Lionel Messi
• The South American giants are unbeaten since suffering a shock 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup

Lionel Scaloni, the manager of Argentina, has officially announced that Lionel Messi will not be participating in their friendly match against Indonesia on Monday, June 19.

Following their victory over Australia, the reigning world champions will face the Asian team at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium; however, the absence of the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner is confirmed.

Alongside Messi, winger Angel Di Maria and former Manchester City defender Nicolas Otamendi will also be sitting out the upcoming fixture, per Inside Sport.

Scaloni explained that the decision was made to provide the aforementioned trio with some well-deserved rest, particularly Messi, who is currently immersed in his vacation period.

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"I understand that Indonesian fans are sad, but Messi is resting, I had already decided before that he, Di María and Otamendi should rest after a very long season," he said, as quoted by Sportskeeda.

Scaloni continued: "Argentina is well above any player. In this case, Leo is not there, but the others are. We hope they, the fans, are going to enjoy it."

What next for Messi?

After concluding his two-year tenure with Paris Saint-Germain, Lionel Messi has signed with Inter Miami, creating anticipation for his upcoming involvement in Major League Soccer (MLS).

It is widely expected that the legendary footballer will exhibit his exceptional skills and talents in the MLS, bringing excitement to fans and further elevating the profile of the league.

Messi's arrival at Inter Miami marks a new chapter in his illustrious career as he embarks on a fresh journey across the Atlantic.

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Messi dazzles in Australia friendly

In his last game for La Albiceleste, Lionel Messi rolled back the hands of time to produce a ridiculous dribble, wriggling his way around Australian defenders during an international friendly, Sports Brief reported.

Messi, showcasing his continued brilliance, scored as reigning world champions Argentina triumphed 2-0 over the gallant Socceroos in Beijing, China.

With Argentina firmly in control, Messi mesmerised the crowd at the Workers Stadium with his trademark dribbling, effortlessly evading Australian defenders with his exquisite touches and agile changes of direction.