Angel Di Maria has explained why Lionel Messi’s absence during Argentina’s March camp is a blessing in disguise.

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Di Maria missed Messi in Argentina’s squad
Messi pulled out of the team due to injury
Argentina beat El Salvador 3-0

WHAT HAPPENED?

The World Cup-winning Argentina skipper had to pull out of the national team for the international friendlies in March as he suffered an injury during Inter Miami’s CONCACAF Champions Cup clash against Nashville earlier this month.

 

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

Di Maria, who is known to be very close to Messi, has claimed that the 36-year-old’s injury is a blessing for Argentina, as he urged the squad to remain “calm” ahead of their title defence at the 2024 Copa America later this year.

WHAT ANGEL DI MARIA SAID

Speaking to D Sports, the Benfica star said: “Leo is always missed. Having the best in history, being able to train and play with him is the best. It’s a shame that this [injury] happened to him now, but we have to be calm. It’s better that it happened now and he is fine for the Copa America.”

Argentina squadraGetty Images

WHAT NEXT FOR ARGENTINA?

After beating El Salvador 3-0 in their friendly encounter, La Albiceleste will be next seen in action against Costa Rica on Tuesday. Argentina will then start looking ahead to the Copa America in the United States, as they are due to kick off their title defence on June 20.