The 2024 Olympics starts on July 26. Some big soccer names are expected to participate in the mega event. However, before that, there is the grand Copa America which starts on June 20. While soccer fans are undeniably excited by the prospect of two back-to-back high-level tournaments, Inter Miami’s boss, Tata Martino, doesn’t share the same sentiments. In fact, he has laid out a verdict that is set to dampen the hopes of many of his players.

The Argentine tactician is more than happy to see his players represent their country. However, with the Olympics and Copa America coming up, Tata Martino wants his players to prioritize between the two competitions. It’s a case of which, rather than both. Giving the example of Diego Gomez, who has had a spectacular pre-Olympic tournament and is keen to play in both competitions, the Inter Miami boss gave his thoughts on the situation.

Martino said (translated via EzDubs), “I know that Diego Gomez is going. He has the Copa America & the Olympic games. We have no problem, we know we have to give it to the Copa America and that to the Olympic games. I don’t have any problems choosing, but it’s just that you can’t spend 2 months, because no one would do it.” It seems that Martino is giving a message, not just to Gomez.

But to all the South American players, who may have had hopes of representing the country in the Olympics. He also explained that he understands the player’s sentiments by referring to his time as a National Team coach. But the issue as per him, is the ‘player stays for two months.’ Martino’s decision seems final and this could potentially spell the end for Javier Mascherano’s masterplan for the Olympics.

Tata Martino has effectively ended Mascherano’s plan to include Messi in Paris 2024

Argentina U23 coach Javier Mascherano was keen to invite Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria to the Olympics. Mascherano had stated, “I have an amazing relationship with Leo and Angel. We are friends. As a coach, I have an obligation to invite them but one understands that they have other obligations and it will depend on them. It’s not that simple.” Moreover, there were reports that the duo would participate if Argentina qualified.

2024 Paris Olympics: Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria Want to Play If Argentina Qualifies

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Hence, Martino’s verdict is a bitter blow to Mascherano & perhaps Messi himself. The 8x Ballon d’Or winner had taken to social media recently to congratulate the Argentine U23 team following their victory against Brazil. Turning 37 in a few months, Paris 2024 would possibly be his final chance to participate in the Olympics.

As it stands, it looks like Beijing 2008 will remain the 8x Ballon d’Or winner’s only Olympic appearance.

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