Lionel Messi makes post-Copa America plans amid Argentina goal drought
Lionel Messi is set to be the headline attraction as he prepares to feature for the MLS All-Stars, with an ensemble cast of stars from rival teams upon his return to club action from Copa America.
Currently the legendary winger's focus is on defending his country's title in the continental tournament as he looks to lead Argentina to another international triumph. The 37-year-old has failed to find the net for his nation in the competition so far, starring in the La Albiceleste's first two group games as he led the team to back-to-back wins.
He was rested for their final match in Group A, as his teammates defeated Peru - with Ecuador now set to come in the quarter-finals. It is almost certain that Argentina's talisman will be restored to the starting XI for the knockout rounds, with the team now three games from retaining the trophy they won back in 2021.
With the Copa America final set to take place on July 15, Messi could have nine days between his next game if he is to take his team all the way to the showpiece in Miami. Assuming he does not feature for Inter Miami on July 18 and 21, his next outing could come in the MLS All-Star Game on July 24.
The star is among four players from Vice City who have been selected for the game, with Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets also having been called up. The match will see leading stars from MLS pitted against their equivalents from Mexico's Liga MX, at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio.
The roster for the All-Star Game consists of 30 players and has been put together as a result of voting via fan, players and the media. Meanwhile, the Columbus Crew head coach Wilfried Nancy also has had a hand in the final selection, along with MLS commissioner Don Garber.
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Lionel Messi is currently leading Argentina at the Copa America tournament in the United States
Camilo Durana, MLS Executive Vice President of Properties and Events spoke with excitement ahead of the spectacle, saying: "We’re excited to host Liga MX at the 2024 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target, showcasing the global and rising stars of our leagues, and the strength of our sport in North America."
Meanwhile, LIGA MX President Mikel Arriola said: "It is a privilege to participate in the 2024 MLS All-Star Game for the third time. LIGA MX will bring together its best players to form a competitive team. This will be another chapter of this sporting rivalry, which allows us to continue building a great partnership with MLS.
"We are very excited about the opportunity to reconnect and be close to the Mexican fanbase in the United States. I'm sure we'll have a great experience in Columbus."
Columbus Crew owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam added: "It is an honor to host the 2024 MLS All-Star Game in Columbus, which is a truly special opportunity to bring our incredible sport, league, city, and stadium to the world."