The Barcelona superstar was in action for Argentina in their Saturday’s 1-0 win over 2018 World Cup hosts Russia in Moscow, but will return to his base in Barcelona, Spain ahead of his club’s game next weekend against Leganes.
Messi told Argentina Football Association twitter handle, “We want to reach the World Cup in the best way.
“Sampaoli regulated me a little bit and that I won’t play in the game against Nigeria.”
Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli was pleased with his side’s dominance over Russia in the friendly game on Saturday. He said, “The team dominated Rusia at home and we have to continue moving forward collectively ahead of what’s coming. We have to continue on this path. “Messi and Aguero has so much understanding during the game which was good.”