Will Lionel Messi play for Argentina against Peru? Journalist provides fitness update ahead of 2024 Copa America clash

Lionel Messi is likely to be unavailable for Argentina's Copa America 2024 Group A match in Miami against Peru this Saturday (June 29), according to journalist Diego Monroig.

Earlier on Tuesday (June 25), Messi sustained a minor thigh injury in his team's 1-0 Copa America triumph over Chile. He picked up the issue after getting fouled by Gabriel Suazo in the 24th minute of the clash.

After the end of La Albiceleste's second Group A match in New Jersey, Messi was asked to provide an update on his recent injury. The 37-year-old replied (h/t AP):

"It's bothering me a little bit but I was able to finish the match. It was hard for me to move freely, particularly side to side. We'll see tomorrow how it feels."

Now, according to Monroig, the Argentina captain is set to miss his team's contest against Peru on Saturday. Fortunately, his team have already qualified for the last-eight stage of the ongoing Copa America.

Argentina, who are the reigning champions of the continental tournament, are atop Group A with six points from two outings. Canada are currently in second spot with three points, while both Chile and Peru are on a single point each ahead of the last group-stage clashes.

Arturo Vidal reveals what Argentina's Lionel Messi must do to win Ballon d'Or this year

Ex-Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal has explained what Argentina and Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi must do to lift his record-extending ninth Ballon d'Or award in 2024. He said (h/t x/@theMadridZone):

"I like Jude Bellingham a lot. He scores goals, he takes the ball, he does a lot of things like me, I identify with him. For Real Madrid, Jude was the best. He has to play good at the Euros otherwise he will lose the Ballon d'Or. If Leo Messi wins the Copa America, he can get back in the race."

The left-footed attacker is currently relishing a great year at club and country level. He has recorded 14 goals and 11 assists in 15 outings for his club, while providing an assist in two Copa America 2024 games.

Jude Bellingham, on the other hand, is considered to be one of the favorites to win the Ballon d'Or award this year. The 20-year-old midfielder helped Real Madrid win a prestigious double last season, scoring 23 goals and registering 13 assists in 42 overall appearances.