by Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez is eagerly anticipating linking up with Lionel Messi for Argentina at this summer’s Copa America. Alvarez has expressed his hope that Messi will remain with the national team for as long as possible.
Messi, who will turn 37 next month, has been included in Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni’s squad for the Copa America in the United States. Argentina, the current holders, will begin the tournament on June 20 against Canada.
Argentina won the previous Copa America in 2021 by defeating hosts Brazil 1-0 in the final, marking Messi’s first major international trophy. This victory was followed by Argentina’s triumphant World Cup campaign in Qatar in 2022.
Reflecting on Messi’s impact, Alvarez highlighted Messi’s praise for him during the World Cup. Messi had said, “I always say the same thing: the group work rate is our strength, and any of my teammates deserves to be Man of the Match. But today I think Julian has stood out above all; he played an amazing game. He was the one who opened the way, who fought all of them, ran and generated chances. I think he was a very important player, as he has been throughout this World Cup, and I think he deserves this [Man of the Match award].”
Alvarez, who scored 19 goals for Manchester City this season, has made significant strides on the international stage with 29 caps and seven goals for Argentina. Despite making only one appearance in the 2021 Copa America, his contributions have been crucial.
As Alvarez prepares for the upcoming Copa America, he hopes that Messi’s enduring presence will continue to inspire and lead the national team to further success.
