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Amid all the uncertainty surrounding Copa America 2021, nations are going ahead with their preparations for the tournament.
Colombia and Argentina have both been removed as hosts, with Brazil set to host the tournament under controversial circumstances. Some of the best players in the world are set to feature in the 2021 Copa America, with Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez all likely to play.
Without further ado, we look at 5 players above the age of 30 who can dominate the tournament.
#5 Alexis Sanchez (Chile)
Alexis Sanchez's club career has seen a decline ever since he left Arsenal in January 2018 to join Manchester United.
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The Chile international failed to replicate his Gunners' form for Manchester United and is currently a squad player at Inter Milan. However, Sanchez continues to be a star for his national team, and will be crucial in Copa America. The 32-year old, who has 137 caps and 46 goals for his country, played an important role as Chile won the 2015 and 2016 Copa America titles and much will be expected from him once again.
Sanchez made just 12 league starts for Inter Milan this season, but scored seven goals and provided five assists during the limited minutes afforded to him. While he is clearly past his prime, it is evident that the forward can still have a meaningful impact on Copa America 2021.
#4 Edinson Cavani (Uruguay)
When Manchester United signed Edinson Cavani on a free transfer last summer, it was viewed by many as a panic buy.
However, the 34-year old enjoyed a fine debut season with the Old Trafford outfit. Cavani made just 13 starts in the Premier League but managed to score 10 goals and provide three assists, while his performances in the Europa League fuelled Manchester United into the finals.
Cavani was part of the Uruguay side which won the Copa America in 2011, and it is likely that the striker will be an integral part of the squad for Copa America 2021. Cavani's predatory movement and excellent aerial ability could come useful for his country this summer.
Also Read: 5 stars Chelsea could sign this transfer window
#3 Thiago Silva (Brazil)
Like Edinson Cavani, Thiago Silva joined a Premier League giant on a free transfer after being released by Paris Saint-Germain last summer.
Chelsea signed Silva and have reaped the rewards. The Brazil international was one of the best centre-backs in the league last season and was a starter in the Champions League final, with Chelsea beating Manchester City to clinch the trophy.
The 36-year old is regarded as one of the leaders in the Brazil dressing room and was part of the side which won Copa America in 2019. With 93 caps to his name, Silva's experience and quality will be key for Brazil at Copa America 2021.
#2 Luis Suarez (Uruguay)
Regarded by many as one of the greatest strikers of the modern generation, Luis Suarez enjoyed an incredible 2020/21 season with Atletico Madrid, with his performances leading Diego Simeone's men to the league title.
Having made his name as one of the best in the world at Liverpool, it was at Barcelona that Suarez established himself as one of the best strikers of this century. The Uruguay international made 283 appearances in all competitions for Barcelona and scored 198 goals, forming a potent attacking partnership with Lionel Messi and Neymar.
The 34-year old joined Atletico Madrid in controversial circumstances last summer. Uruguay boast two world-class strikers in their ranks in the form of Suarez and Cavani, and they will hope that the veteran forward duo lead them to success at Copa America 2021. Like Cavani, Suarez was part of the Uruguay side which won Copa America in 2011.
#1 Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Arguably the greatest player to have played the game, Lionel Messi will be desperate to leave his mark at the international stage with Argentina.
With Argentina, Lionel Messi has participated in three Copa America finals, losing all three. The 33-year old is under intense pressure to win something with his country, and his chances of doing so are rapidly dwindling given his age and the quality of players that other countries possess.
Messi's quality is undeniable, but his lack of success with Argentina has often led to criticism. With a strong support cast around him, the Barcelona star has a good chance of leading his country to a Copa America title this summer.
Also Read: 5 Cristiano Ronaldo records Lionel Messi might never break
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