Clasico return would be huge gamble for Messi – Doctor

Argentina’s club doctor has warned Lionel Messi he will put himself at risk of long-term injury if he returns from his current problem against Real Madrid next weekend.

Messi sustained a knee ligament injury against Las Palmas on September 26 and has been sidelined ever since.

In his absence, Barcelona have won four and drawn one of their last five La Liga games and sit top of the table ahead of the meeting with second-placed Real Madrid.

But amid talk the player could return to the bench – or even the starting line-up in the game – Argentina’s club doctor Homero de Agostino has advised caution.

“The risk of aggravating the injury if Messi plays the Clasico is high,” he told Cadena SER.

De Agostino said he doubted whether the 28-year-old would be back to fitness in time for the top-of-the-table clash.

“I don’t think that he can get in condition to play the Clasico,” he said.

“The coach [Luis Enrique] cannot rely on a newly recovered player.”

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