Argentina coach reveals Lionel Messi is suffering from effect of Covid after he contracted the ‘roughest variant’

By Larry John Brown

Published: January 27, 2022 | 4:39 PM GMT

Argentina coach, Lionel Scaloni has revealed that Lionel Messi is still suffering from the effects of having Covid, after he contracted the ‘roughest variant’ during the winter break.

PSG superstar Messi has played just once this year after getting infected last month, making his return in the 4-0 win over Reims last weekend. However, Messi was not called up for Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers with Chile and Colombia due to the fact that he was still not 100 percent fully recovered from the virus, according to Scaloni. ‘I talked to (Messi) after he tested positive for COVID,’ Scaloni told a press conference on Wednesday. ‘It affected him a lot, he had the roughest variant.

‘It is important that he recovers, feels fit because there will be important moments ahead. I felt that it was not ideal for him to joins us [on international duty this weekend] not being at 100 per cent. He was affected for a some time.

Scaloni told reporters that his assistants Walter Samuel and Roberto Ayala will be in charge for the match. Argentina has already secured a spot at the tournament in Qatar, while Chile is still in contention. ‘I am well, recovered. But the PCR remains positive,’ Scaloni added. Brazil and Argentina have both qualified for the World Cup, with two more automatic spots up for grabs in South American qualifying. The fifth-place team advances to a playoff against an Asian opponent. Only last-place Venezuela, with seven points, is out of contention.

About Larry John Brown

Larry John is a talented writer and journalist based in New York, USA. He is a valued contributor to TDPel Media, where he creates engaging and informative content for readers. Larry has a keen interest in current events, business, and technology, and he enjoys exploring these topics in-depth to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the issues. His writing style is characterized by its clarity, precision, and attention to detail, which make his articles a pleasure to read. Larry’s passion for storytelling has earned him a reputation as a skilled writer and a respected authority in his field.