SerpApi.Org
Argentina captain Lionel Messi decided against joining his teammates at the open-top bus parade in Buenos Aires, instead flying privately and returning home after the FIFA World Cup heartbreak.
Messi was in tears after Spain won the World Cup, as Ferran Torres became the hero in the 106th minute of the final. Ugly scenes followed the final whistle as Leandro Parades grabbed Eric Garcia's throat before wrestling Gavi to the ground.
While several members of the Argentina national team remained in the United States, likely beginning a summer vacation there before the new soccer season, the remainder traveled back home. However, Messi, who was savagely yanked back by Donald Trump in an excruciating moment, flew alone as he headed back to his Rosario residence.
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The Argentine stars were criticized for their conduct during the World Cup, but still returned to a hero's welcome in Buenos Aires. Head coach Lionel Scaloni was joined by 15 of his players, and an open-top bus traveled along major streets toward the AFA training center.
Several players chose to remain in the United States. Rodrigo De Paul, Cristian Romero, Julian Alvarez, Geronimo Rulli, Juan Musso, Nico Paz, Giuliano Simeone, Lautaro Martinez, Molina, and Enzo Fernandez decided against flying home.
With 10 staying in the U.S., and 15 joining the open-top bus parade, that just left Messi, who decided to fly to Islas Malvinas International Airport before commuting to Rosario. Messi will likely enjoy some rest before flying back to the U.S., with Inter Miami's MLS season ongoing.
However, Messi is also expected to see his parents, Jorge Messi and Celia Cuccittini, during his summer break. Messi's parents were unable to attend the World Cup because of Jorge's health issues, and a statement was released toward the start of the tournament.
"He is currently under medical supervision, recovering, and progressing favorably within his current condition,” Messi’s family told ESPN. "… A person’s health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be subject to speculation or irresponsible media interest.
"We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern received, and we request that the privacy, confidentiality, and intimacy of Jorge and his entire family be respected during this process. Any relevant updates will be communicated promptly by the family and through the appropriate channels."
After reflecting on the painful World Cup defeat, Messi penned an emotional statement to his 512 million Instagram followers. "The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal," Messi wrote. "But I also hold onto all the good things...
"The matches we turned around by giving it our all—moments that will remain in our memories forever—and the support of an entire country which, combined with this group's hard work and effort, brought us back among the world's elite once again.
"It is hard to fully appreciate our achievement right now, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and message.
"Once again, we managed to unite as a country and stand together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine. I also want to congratulate Spain on winning the championship."
It comes after a lip reader exposed FIFA boss Gianni Infantino's desperate plea to Trump that he ignored in a humiliating moment.
