Javier Mascherano, coach of the Argentine under-23 national team, has extended an open invitation for Messi and Di Maria to join the Olympic Games. Recent indications suggest that the Aston Villa goalkeeper is also eager to pursue an Olympic gold medal, an accolade that is absent from his impressive collection of trophies with the national team, which includes a World Cup and a Copa America title.

Speaking to DirecTV Sports, Martinez said: “If there’s something missing for me with the national team, it’s winning the Olympic Games.”

However, Martinez assured that he would step aside if Argentina triumph at the Copa America, leaving his spot for emerging talents.

“Young players always need the opportunity, and if we do well in the Copa América and win it, we should give the youngsters a chance,” he added.

While Messi has not revealed his decision, Di Maria has expressed his desire to wrap up his international career after the Copa America earlier in the same summer. The Copa America, the premier South American tournament, concludes just 10 days before the start of the Olympic competition in Paris, potentially posing a scheduling challenge for the availability of Messi and his compatriots.