Barcelona striker Lionel Messi is rated doubtful for Sunday's Primera Division trip to Celta Vigo after failing to overcome a foot problem while on international duty with Argentina this week.
Messi sustained the injury two weeks ago when the Catalan club took on Manchester City in the Champions League and then La Liga rivals Real Madrid in the Clasico.
The 27-year-old forward sat out Argentina's 2-0 friendly victory over El Salvador on Saturday and was not risked in Tuesday night's 2-1 win over Ecuador as he returns to Spain still nursing his injured foot.
Argentina coach Gerardo Martino told www.afa.org.ar: "We waited until the last minute to see if he could play (as) I understand the expectation.
"But he was unable to (play) as he had a hard time putting on his boots, (as his foot) really hurts so we decided not to take a risk.
"I offer apologies to the people who came, eager to see him."
Messi's management ruled out any speculation it could be a serious injury as they told Marca: "If he had a bad injury he would have gone straight back to Barcelona, but it is true it is painful for him.
"When he gets back they will do tests on him to evaluate his condition."
Barcelona centre-back Gerard Pique, meanwhile, hopes Messi will be available for Sunday's league match as Luis Enrique's side go in search of an eighth successive win in all competitions.
"I'm optimistic about Messi. I hope he can play in Vigo, but it will depend on how he's feeling," the former Manchester United defender tweeted.
La Liga leaders Barcelona are currently four points clear of second-placed Real ahead of this weekend's fixtures.
Source: PA
