Tata Martino apologised to Lionel Messi’s American fanbase after the forward missed Argentina’s 2-1 victory over Ecuador on Tuesday.
The Barcelona star did not feature against El Salvador last weekend with a swollen foot and failed to recover in time for the Albiceleste’s final match of their US tour, despite the Coach’s initial optimism.
“We waited for [Lionel] Messi until the last minute, but he was unable to play,” the former Blaugrana boss said after the match.
“Putting on his boots would have been too risky. He hurt his foot and wasn’t able to play.
“If anything, I offer my apologies to the fans who were eager to see him.”
