Lionel Messi fears that his groin strain could force him out of the start of the Champions League campaign.
The Barcelona ace picked up the injury during Thursday’s 1-0 win for Argentina over Uruguay and will miss tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier against Venezuela.
There are conflicting reports this morning about the extent of the injury which won’t be fully diagnosed until it is assessed by Barcelona’s medical team. Celtic visit the Nou Camp in eight days time.
Messi was troubled throughout last season by muscle injuries but played on until June 27 when he missed the vital penalty as Argentina lost to Chile in the final of the Copa America.
Speaking after the win over Uruguay the Barca icon said: “My groin hurts a lot. It is messed up and it could get worse.
“I always want to play, but the truth is that the season is just starting and there are a lot of important matches ahead of us.”
It seems that the strain of 11 month seasons could be taking it’s toll on Messi who briefly announced his retirement from international football following the defeat from Chile in the Copa America.
After being talked out of that decision he was back playing for Barcelona in a friendly against Celtic less than a month later.
This season he has scored three goals in two domestic outings but is now doubtful to start Saturday’s La Liga game against Alaves.
Three days later Celtic visit the Nou Camp where Brendan Rodgers may find an unexpected bonus of not having to play against the legendary Argentinian.
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