Barcelona has announced that superstar Lionel Messi will not join the team on the three match World Football Challenge tour of the United States. It should not come as a shock though as it was always doubtful Messi would play due to his participation with Argentina in the Copa America. There had been some recent speculation though as Argentina crashed out early in the tournament.
The reigning UEFA Champions League champions will be without their star striker who will be given some time to rest after his international duties. Also getting time to rest after the Copa America are Daniel Alves, Mascherano and Alexis Sanchez. The cupboard is far from bare though as Barcelona will field a very strong team in the States.
Stars such as Carlos Puyol, Victor Valdes, Xavi, Pique, Iniesta and David Villa are all on the roster. Barcelona, as part of the World Football Challenge, will take on English Premier League champion Manchester United at FedEx Field in Maryland on July 30. Barcelona will also face Chivas Guadalajara on Aug. 3 in Miami and Club America at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Aug. 6.