Barcelona striker Lionel Messi hasn’t been cleared to play against Paris Saint Germain on Wednesday for the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, but most people inside the club like his chances to be ready for the match.
Messi suffered a hamstring strain in the first leg against the French on Tuesday, and he had to leave the game at halftime. Lio’s real condition hasn’t been declared at the moment, but the Argentinean has a history of getting a quick recuperation from injuries.
The current ballon d’or Lionel Messi had physiotherapy. He also did some fitness work during the weekend, but at least the team didn’t miss him against Mallorca.
Barça was able to smash Mallorca 5-0 without the best striker in the world, and it looked easy and natural for them. Cesc Fabregas scored a hat-trick and Alexis Sanchez added to more for the victory.
Messi scored in each of the last 19 La Liga games, but that streak was cut on Saturday as he had to miss the game against Mallorca.
Barcelona needs a low scoring draw or a victory to be in their sixth straight UFA Champions League semifinals, but they played without Messi in any of the previous five; if he doesn’t make it they will be facing a different scenario.
With Messi on the field, Barcelona will be able to use different formations and movements to open a PSG defense that will be looking to maintain their team in the game. Messi played from the center to the right in the first leg, and despite the Argentinean managing to get a goal, he was often predictable and confuse.
Lio can play as a false nine and be inside the box in attacking situations, but also he can come from midfield to open some spaces. Also, he can play as a right wing coming to the center as he gets his left foot set for a strike or a beautiful pass.
Defender Adriano and striker Pedro are doubtful about the game against PSG for several different injuries. “They do not yet have the medical all-clear, but it’s already the third day they are working with their team mates,” Barca added in the statement.
If the “bleugrana” advances to the semifinal it would be a record for any club since the Champions League was created in 1993.
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