Lionel Messi's national teammate handed 2-match ban by FIFA, set to miss Argentina games against Venezuela and Bolivia - Reports
Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is set to miss La Albiceleste's next two World Cup Qualifiers fixtures against Venezuela and Bolivia. FIFA has suspended the 32-year-old for two games for his actions during two international fixtures in September.
The first incident happened after Argentina's 1-0 win over Chile on September 10. The shot-stopper held a replica of the Copa America trophy close to his groin area, referring to his celebrations after the 2022 World Cup triumph.
Martinez was also accused of shoving away a camera person's equipment following Argentina's 2-1 loss to Colombia on September 15.
In response, the Argentinian Football Federation (AFA) issued a statement, expressing their disagreement with the decision. The statement read:
"It should be noted that the Argentine Football Association expresses its absolute disagreement with the decision taken by the FIFA disciplinary committee."
Martinez is set to be out of contention for the matches against Venezuela on October 10 and Bolivia on October 15.
Argentina lead the qualifiers with 18 points from eight games, followed closely by Colombia with 16.
Inter Miami manager issues update on Lionel Messi's fitness
Inter Miami boss Gerardo Martino confirmed that Lionel Messi will be available for Argentina's next round of fixtures. Ahead of the Herons' clash against Charlotte FC, he hoped the Argentine superstar would be fit in time for the MLS playoffs.
He said (via press conference):
"Obviously, Leo does not need to do differentiated physical work in training, but he needs a rhythm of competition, which gives me the idea that he is going to reach the playoffs very well because in addition to the games with us he has the games with the Argentinian national team. So we have high hopes that he will come into the play-offs in very good shape."
Messi's last appearance for Argentina came at the Copa America, where he helped La Albiceleste beat Colombia in the final and lift the trophy for the second time.
The Barcelona legend picked up an ankle injury in the game. Messi's game time for Inter Miami has been heavily managed following the injury. He returned on September 14 in the side's 3-1 win over Philadelphia Union and has since built up his rhythm.