Argentina captaincy ´still belongs´ to Messi, says De Paul

Rodrigo De Paul says the Argentina captaincy “still belongs” to Lionel Messi despite his extended injury lay-off.

The Inter Miami star has been out of action since the Copa America final due to an ankle injury and will not be involved in Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia.

Messi is still a key part of Lionel Sclaoni’s plans with the national side, and he played in all but one of their games at that tournament, though only registered one goal and one assist for the tournament.

Angel Di Maria retired from international duty after their Copa America triumph and was the usual deputy to Messi, who has captained Albiceleste since 2011.

With neither of those two available, it is expected that De Paul, who has 69 international caps, will wear the armband against Chile, but he has played down the idea of deputising for Messi.

“I always say that I play the role that they give me,” De Paul said.

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“It’s been many years. I feel like an important player in this team. That’s all I can say.

“Afterwards, we know that the armband belongs to Leo. Whoever has to wear it will be circumstantial because he is the captain of this team.”

Argentina are currently top of their qualifying group with five wins from six games. Meanwhile, Messi is back in training again and is expected to make his return in MLS later this month.