'I hope to play against Spain, I'm up for it'

Messi, along with the coach, Jorge Sampaoli, and the Argentine Football Association (AFA), thought it was best not to risk the forward against Italy. However, he wasn't removed completely from the squad and started the match from the bench, although he did no feature in the game.

Messi, one of the big claims of the friendly in Manchester, said that he was "optimistic" and trusts that he will recover in time for the friendly next Tuesday in the Metropolitan Wanda against Spain.

"I have been having some discomfort in the ischio-adductor for a long time. I trained normally, but in the last few days I felt a bit of pain and we decided to wait for everything that is coming up. There is still a long way to go and we also have important things for our respective clubs", Leo said to 'TyC Sports' upon arrival at the Etihad Stadium.

He added: "I'm optimistic, I'm really looking forward to playing (against Spain), I hope I can be here and get there in the best way".

Sampaoli filled Messi's void in the starting XI with Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Giovani Lo Celso and 'La Albiceleste' managed to defeat Italy 2-0 in the forward's absence, thanks to goals from Ever Banega and Manuel Lanzini. 

Sergio Aguero, who posed with Leo Messi before the match in Manchester, confirmed his absence from the game too and will also miss the second one due to injury.