Lionel Messi not linked to Finalissima cancellation, sought pre-World Cup final – source
Argentina’s captain Lionel Messi expressed his disappointment following the cancellation of the Finalissima, viewing the match as a crucial competitive chance, a source informed ESPN.
The captain of Inter Miami aimed to approach the match with ambition, treating it as a significant final ahead of the World Cup, and was not part of the discussions that led to the cancellation, the source added.
The encounter between Argentina, the champions of the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024, and Spain, the victors of the UEFA EURO 2024, was initially set to take place in Qatar on March 27 but was called off due to the ongoing political climate in the area.
“After extensive discussions between UEFA and the organizing bodies in Qatar, it has been announced today that due to the current political situation in the region, the Finalissima cannot be held as planned in Qatar,” UEFA stated on Sunday.
“UEFA considered other viable options, but each was ultimately deemed unacceptable by the Argentinian Football Association.” CONMEBOL issued an additional statement indicating that alternative venues and dates were evaluated, but UEFA dismissed these suggestions.
“In this context, on Saturday, March 14, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) received a proposal to stage the match at a neutral location, Italy, on March 27. Argentina agreed to the proposal without objection, except for the date, proposing March 31 instead. Unfortunately, UEFA declared that hosting the match on the 31st—just four days later than the original date—was not feasible, leading to the cancellation of the Finalissima.”
However, contrary to other reports, Messi did not participate in the lengthy negotiation process involving UEFA, CONMEBOL, and the local organizing committees, a source confirmed to ESPN.
– Spain vs. Argentina Finalissima cancelled due to Middle East conflict
– Messi rested; Mascherano sees red in Miami draw
Instead, the source indicated that the Argentina captain viewed the match as a chance to secure the 49th team title of his career.
With 48 career trophies, Messi is recognized as the most decorated player in football history, having claimed his most recent title with the MLS Cup in December of the previous year.
