Lionel Messi injury: Angel Di Maria and Emi Martinez provide update on Argentina captain after 2-0 Peru win

Argentina stars Angel Di Maria and Emiliano Martinez have provided an update on the injury situation of superstar Lionel Messi. Speaking after the side's 2-0 win over Peru in the Copa America on Saturday, June 29, the pair anticipated a return for the Inter Miami hero.

Di Maria said:

"Leo is fine, he's recovering, we hope he will be ready for the next game. Today's victory is for him."

Meanwhile, Martinez said:

"It was better for Leo to rest and be ready for the quarterfinals."

This comes after a report from TyC Sports that claimed the forward had suffered an adductor injury in Argentina's previous game against Chile. While the setback was not believed to be serious, he was deemed unfit for the Peru match.

Despite the absence of Messi, Argentina maintained their perfect run through Group A in the continental tournament. After a goalless first half, Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez bagged a brace in the second period (47', 86') to ensure La Albiceleste finished top of the group.

This result came after a 2-0 win over Canada in the first game followed by a 1-0 victory over Chile. Their likely opponents in the quarter-finals include Mexico, Ecuador or Venezuela.

Barcelona linked with player Lionel Messi once called 'extraordinary': Reports

Alvarez has been impressive for Manchester City.

Barcelona are looking to sign Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez. According to Spanish outlet Sport, La Blaugrana have had their eye on the 24-year-old since president Joan Laporta was re-elected in 2021.

Lionel Messi was full of praise for the attacker after Argentina's win in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, saying (via Manchester Evening News):

"Nobody imagined Julian would have the participation and importance he has shown. The help he has given us has been absolutely spectacular. During the whole World Cup, but also on Tuesday, he was extraordinary. He ran everything."

According to the report, Barcelona believe Alvarez's versatility would be extremely valuable for the team. He was impressive for Manchester City last season, used both as a striker and in the No. 10 role where he bagged 19 goals and 13 assists in 54 games across all competitions.

The Argentinian could be a great addition to a squad looking to find their attacking identity since Messi's departure. Alongside the emergence of La Masia product Lamine Yamal, signing Alvarez could be huge for Barcelona as they look to chase Real Madrid.