Messi could return to Argentina side for the Copa America in 2019

Lionel Messi's return to the Argentina national team could be getting closer. That's at least the feeling around the Argentina camp at the moment. The key, sources say, is to be patient and let the Barcelona forward make his own decision without pressing him. 

"There's a lot of harmony. [Argentina] are building a good group. With Lionel [Scaloni], the most likely outcome is that Messi returns for the Copa America," one source close to the squad told Diario Sport.  

The feeling around the AFA and the national team squad contrasts with the skepticism in Barcelona, where there have not been the same signals. Although it's not been ruled out that he returns for next summer's Copa America in Brazil. 

His decision to step back from the national team since the World Cup has been interpreted by Argentina as "get on with work calmly, later we will see," but they're confident that the good vibes at the moment will convince the No.10 to come back. 

There are some that think that the information of Leo's possible return is nothing more than a mirage to strengthen Claudio Tapia's stance on extending Scaloni's time in charge. 

In Argentina, the sensation is growing that Scaloni will prolong his stay with a team where the players feel more comfortable all of the time. The presence of Pablo Aimar on his staff has helped in that sense. 

In the hallways of Ezeiza and on the street Viamonte, they assure that there will be news before the end of the month. And they insist that Scaloni will get at least six months more. 

There are more doubts about Leo Mess. Only he knows what he wants to happen next summer, if he wants to enjoy some time off with his family or if he wants to return to the Albiceleste's demands. It remains to be seen if the change with the national team, with less noise and tension, will convince him.