Report: Paco Alcacer to make his Barcelona debut this weekend
FC Barcelona new signing Paco Alcacer is set to start this weekend in place of Lionel Messi, according to reports.
Barcelona have reassured that there is no timetable for world’s best footballer Lionel Messi return to action after re-injuring his groin in World Cup qualifying win against Uruguay.
The club noted: “Tests conducted today on first team player Leo Messi have confirmed that the discomfort in his left abductor muscle persists.
“It’s advised he lowers the burden of training in the coming days and the evolution of the injury will mark his availability to return to action.
Argentina FA and head coach boss Edgardo Bauza revealed last week playing Lionel Messi was pointless against Venezuela due to his existing groin injury, now the maestro is set to miss Deportivo Alaves clash.
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The AFA medical reported: “The captain of the national team is suffering from inguinocrural pain. As a result, he will not participate in the next World Cup qualifying match.
“This morning, Lionel Messi underwent medical and kinesiological treatment for the groin and thigh pain. It is recommended that he continue to rest from activity and will not play against Venezuela.”
Messi confirmed his status via Facebook, statin: “Everything is fine, I have to slow things down as I recover with physio, but it’s nothing to worry about. Thanks to you all for your support.”
After scoring the lone goal against Uruguay last week, Messi admitted that his groin was still a problem.
If Messi is unable to play, Luis Enrique will slot his new signing Paco Alcacer with Luis Suarez and Neymar, according to reports.
Alcacer, who was signed last week in the summer transfer window, is a pacy 23-year-old striker who’s all-around game will benefit the Catalan club as they make a run for another treble.