Emi Martinez drops hint he wants to join Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria in Argentina's Olympic squad

Javier Mascherano, the under-23 Argentine national team coach, has made it clear there's an open invitation for Messi and Di Maria to participate in the Olympic Games. Recent developments indicate that the duo might be joined by the Aston Villa keeper who remains keen on winning an Olympic gold medal - an honour that is missing from his illustrious trophy cabinet with the national team that includes a World Cup and a Copa America title.

Speaking to DirecTV Sports, Martinez said: "If there's something missing for me with the national team, it's winning the Olympic Games."

However, Martinez assured that he would step aside if Argentina triumph at the Copa America, leaving his spot for emerging talents.

"Young players always need the opportunity, and if we do well in the Copa América and win it, we should give the youngsters a chance," he added.

While Messi is yet to announce his decision, Di Maria has stated his intention to conclude his international career at the Copa America earlier in the same summer. The South American flagship tournament will end just 10 days before the Olympic competition gets underway in Paris which could pose a challenge to the availability of Messi and Co.

Martinez's desire to join Messi in the Olympic squad reflects the collective ambition of Argentine players to compete at the highest level and pursue success on the international stage. There have been instances where players have played back-to-back tournaments before - like Barcelona's Pedri, who participated in the Euros and Olympics in 2021 - but it would be physically demanding for a 35-year-old Messi to emulate the Spanish star.