Lionel Messi assumed a different role for a day when Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni made the decision to exclude him from his Squad.
The squad took on Bolivia in the World Cup qualifiers fixture on Tuesday.
Lionel Messi acted as an assistant coach for Argentina during the match, ensuring his presence on the bench alongside his teammates despite carrying an injury.
![Messi](https://capemedia.africa/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/0_messi-argentina.webp)
Before being allowed to sit in the dugout, Messi was required to sign some paperwork from FIFA to get permission.
Messi granted official permission to occupy a spot on the bench, observed as Argentina secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Bolivia.
Courtesy of goals scored by Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Tagliafico, and Nicolas Gonzalez.
![Messi](https://capemedia.africa/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/resize.webp)
The seven-time Ballon D’or winner would have had to watch the match in the stands without FIFA’s permission.
The Intermiami Legend had earlier indicated that he “felt something” after the Argentina versus Ecuador fixture.
Consequently, keeping him off the Squad that played Bolivia was a precautionary measure.
“I was a little tired, so it happened that I went out and surely it won’t be the last time I go out during matches,” Messi said after coming off against Ecuador.
![Messi](https://capemedia.africa/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/16c09b62-44a0-4da7-9c7c-e82ee76f4ecc-1024x538.webp)
His Inter Miami club manager, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, hopes the forward can fully return to action in MLS against Atlanta United on Saturday.
They’re currently six points back of the final playoff position and need a positive result to remain in touching distance of ninth-placed D.C. United.
“It does not seem like anything important, some symptoms of fatigue, at least that’s the information we have, We will know more today,” Martino said of Messi.
![Messi](https://capemedia.africa/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/FvOVPoCmq5_AJhviq6pq8Q-1024x682.webp)
The former Paris Saint Germain and Barcelona forward became an instant hit in the American Soccer League after Joining Inter Miami.
He has helped the club cruise to the US Open Cup finals.