(foto: Getty Images)
Argentine football icons Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria have expressed their desire to compete in the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris, potentially marking a historic moment for both players and their national team.
Lionel Messi, who secured a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, aims to revisit Olympic glory as his illustrious career approaches its twilight. This potential appearance in Paris could offer Messi a chance to add another significant achievement to his storied career, especially after his pivotal role in Argentina's recent World Cup victory.
Angel Di Maria, a key figure in the Argentine squad since 2008, has yet to make an Olympic appearance. The Paris Olympics presents a final opportunity for him to showcase his talents on this prestigious stage and add a crowning achievement to his national team career.
Both Messi and Di Maria have informed the Argentine Football Association (AFA) of their intention to participate in the Games, where they would also serve as mentors to the younger players on the team. The AFA has reportedly shown unofficial support for this idea, though the final decision will depend on various factors, including the players' form, fitness, and the national team coach's strategy.
The possibility of witnessing Messi and Di Maria, who share a strong friendship and a successful partnership on the field, including their recent World Cup triumph, playing together at the Olympics is generating excitement among fans. Their participation would undoubtedly be one of the highlights of the Paris tournament.