Olympic invitation extended to Lionel Messi ahead of Paris Games as Thiago Almada opens door to fellow MLS & Argentina star

The 2022 World Cup winners are yet to book their tickets to France, but are confident of gracing another major competition. The Olympic tournament is an U23 event, but overage players – such as 36-year-old Messi – can be called upon to aid the collective cause.

Almada, who savoured global glory in Qatar and plays alongside Messi in MLS, is still eligible to coach Javier Mascherano at the age of 22. He could also be selected for Copa America duty later in the year, with the Atlanta United playmaker happy to be as busy as possible at international level.

Almada has told Ole of plans for the Olympics and who could form part of them: “Lionel Scaloni's coaching staff notified me, then I spoke directly with Javier and I didn't even hesitate, I said yes. We are working very well, we have a nice group and great players. Hopefully we can qualify for Argentina, as we should be there, and then if Messi wants to come, he is welcome.”

Almada added on his goals for the immediate future: “I have many dreams left to fulfil. I would like to have the opportunity to play in Europe, continue being part of the national team to compete and continue winning things. But now we have to try to qualify for the Games, then I will try to be in the Copa America and continue.”

There has been talk of interest from Europe in Almada, but for now he is counting down the days to the 2024 MLS campaign. He will be competing with Messi there as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner forms part of a star-studded squad at Inter Miami that now includes former Liverpool and Barcelona striker Luis Suarez.