Lionel Messi was spotted faking injury in Argentina training as he jokes with teammates ahead of his possible last world cup.
However, Lionel Messi was joking with his teammates when he pretended to be injured, almost shocking the entire football world.
A week before the World Cup in Qatar, there were worries about Messi’s health in Paris Saint-final Germain’s game. Many supporters feared the Argentina legend could sustain an unexpected injury.
To the surprise of many people around the world, PSG manager Christophe Galtier decided to substitute Messi and Brazilian star Neymar after 75 minutes.
Messi joined his international teammates on Monday afternoon and participated in Argentina’s open practice.
Messi was seen grabbing the back of his leg during the training session, but it was all in good fun as he played along with teammate Rodrigo De Paul by pretending to be hurt. The video is available to view below.
Messi’s joke received a lot of fan feedback on social media.
Una said: “I was on the verge of a heart attack. Don’t make that joke; it’s not acceptable.”
One more tweeted, “Don’t laugh at me, Leo.”
“These guys are joking with our hearts,” a third supporter said.
As they prepare for a pre-tournament friendly against the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday at the Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium, Messi and his Argentina team are currently in Abu Dhabi.
After that, they will concentrate on their World Cup debut in Qatar on November 22, when they play Saudi Arabia.
Argentina will then face Poland and Mexico in their attempt to advance to the round of 16.
Argentina has received a lot of support as the World Cup favorites, in part because Messi has played well for PSG this year. After winning the most recent Copa America, Argentina has also experienced recent success on the global stage.