‘Lionel Messi at the Olympics would be a dream’ – Thiago Almada prepared to hand captain’s armband to Inter Miami superstar if he joins Paris 2024 gold medal bid

Atlanta United midfielder Almada, who plays alongside Inter Miami superstar Messi in MLS, filled the armband for the Albiceleste as they booked their place at the Paris Games with a 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Brazil.

Argentina have not claimed a gold medal since 2008, when Messi formed part of their squad in Beijing, and there is still a chance that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will commit to being an overage player in Javier Mascherano’s squad – although fellow World Cup winner Angel Di Maria will not be joining him.

Almada hopes ex-Paris Saint-Germain star Messi can be talked into a return to the French capital, telling Dsports of securing tickets to another showpiece event: “I am very happy for the group and the coaching staff, they deserve it. We showed that we were better throughout the tournament, always surpassing our opponent. We have time to train and to continue to improve for the Olympic games. I hope Messi has the desire and can be at the Olympic games, it would be a dream. If Messi comes, I’ll give him the captain’s armband, obviously. Now they are the ones who have to decide if they come.”

Part of the problem for Messi is that he is already lined up to represent his country at the 2024 Copa America, which will take place in the United States between June 20 and July 14. The Olympics start a couple of weeks later, meaning a quick turnaround for the veteran all-time great – who would also be taking time out from domestic action in MLS with Inter Miami.