Messi ruled out of Argentina's friendly against Spain

The Barcelona forward was passed fit to play by coach Jorge Sampaoli on Monday, but is still feeling discomfort after missing Friday's win over Italy
Lionel Messi has been ruled out of Argentina's friendly against Spain on Tuesday after failing to recover from injury, sources in the Argentina camp have confirmed.

The Barcelona forward missed Friday's 2-0 win for the Albiceleste over Italy in Manchester after feeling discomfort in his hamstring and right adductor, but was expected to feature against La Roja in Madrid.

Argentina boss Jorge Sampaoli told the media that his captain was fit and feeling good in Monday's pre-match press conference, saying that the player would tell him if there was any problem.

"There is no risk," he said. "If there was any risk [of injury or aggravating the problem by playing], Leo would have said. He told us before the last friendly. He was tested yesterday and tried again today. If he continues like this, he will have no problems playing."

However, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner did not feel right on Tuesday morning, Goal has learned, and told the coaching staff that it would be better if he sits out against Spain.