The phrase “Icardo Do Not 2018 Wc Because Of Messi” encapsulates a significant controversy in Argentinian football history. Why was Mauro Icardi, a prolific goal scorer, excluded from the 2018 World Cup squad despite his impressive club form? This article delves into the complex reasons behind Icardi’s omission, exploring the alleged role of Lionel Messi and other contributing factors.
The Messi Factor: A Shadow of Doubt?
The most prevalent theory surrounding Icardi’s absence points to Lionel Messi’s influence. Some speculate that Messi, as captain and arguably the most influential figure in Argentinian football, exerted his power to block Icardi’s inclusion. This speculation stems from Icardi’s personal life, specifically his relationship with Wanda Nara, the ex-wife of Maxi Lopez, a former teammate and friend of Messi. This perceived betrayal created tension within the squad and potentially influenced Messi’s stance on Icardi’s place in the team.
Rumors abound regarding a “locker room veto” orchestrated by Messi, but concrete evidence remains elusive. Many argue that the decision was based solely on tactical grounds, citing the existing team chemistry and established attacking partnerships. However, the timing of certain events and the public statements made by some players fuelled the Messi-Icardi feud narrative.
Tactical Considerations: A Matter of Fit?
Beyond the Messi factor, tactical considerations played a crucial role in Icardi’s exclusion. Then-coach Jorge Sampaoli favored a fluid attacking system that relied on intricate passing combinations and off-ball movement. Icardi, primarily a poacher within the penalty box, was deemed less suited to this style of play compared to other strikers in the squad, such as Sergio Agüero and Gonzalo Higuaín.
While Icardi’s goal-scoring record was undeniable, his overall contribution to team play was questioned. Critics argued that his limited involvement outside the penalty area made him a less versatile option in a system that prioritized collective effort and fluidity. This perceived lack of tactical flexibility ultimately contributed to his omission from the 2018 World Cup squad.
Was Icardi’s Exclusion Justified?
The decision to exclude Icardi remains a subject of debate among football fans and analysts. While his goal-scoring prowess was evident, the tactical considerations and the potential disruption to team harmony were significant factors. Ultimately, Sampaoli prioritized a cohesive unit over individual brilliance, a decision that some argue cost Argentina a potential goal-scoring threat at the tournament.
The Aftermath: A Career Defined by Absence
Icardi’s absence from the 2018 World Cup marked a turning point in his career. The controversy surrounding his exclusion overshadowed his club achievements and fuelled speculation about his future with the national team. Despite subsequent changes in coaching staff, Icardi’s international career remained sporadic, further solidifying the narrative of a player ostracized due to off-field issues.
What happened to Icardi after the 2018 World Cup?
After the 2018 World Cup, Icardi’s career took several turns, including a controversial exit from Inter Milan and a move to Paris Saint-Germain. However, he never regained his prominence in the Argentinian national team setup.
Conclusion: The “icardo do not 2018 wc because of messi” saga remains a complex and multifaceted story. While Messi’s influence cannot be definitively proven, the combination of tactical considerations and personal dynamics likely contributed to Icardi’s unfortunate absence from the 2018 World Cup. This decision, whether justified or not, undoubtedly impacted the trajectory of both Icardi’s career and Argentina’s performance at the tournament.
Expert Quotes:
- Juan Pablo Varsky (Sports Journalist): “The Icardi situation was a delicate balancing act between tactical needs and locker room dynamics. Sampaoli ultimately prioritized unity, a decision that had both positive and negative consequences.”
- Hernán Crespo (Former Argentina Striker): “Icardi’s goal-scoring record speaks for itself, but international football requires more than just goals. His compatibility with the team’s style of play was a legitimate concern.”
FAQ:
- Why was Icardi not in the 2018 World Cup? A combination of tactical considerations and alleged personal conflicts, including rumored issues with Lionel Messi, contributed to his exclusion.
- Did Messi prevent Icardi from playing in the World Cup? While widely speculated, there’s no concrete evidence proving Messi directly blocked Icardi’s inclusion.
- Was Icardi a good player? Yes, Icardi was a prolific goal scorer at the club level, but his style of play was considered less adaptable to the national team’s tactics.
- Did Icardi ever play for Argentina again after 2018? He made a few appearances after 2018, but his international career remained largely stalled.
- Who coached Argentina in the 2018 World Cup? Jorge Sampaoli.
- What happened to Icardi’s career after 2018? He moved from Inter Milan to Paris Saint-Germain but never reached the same heights of success.
- Is the Icardi-Messi feud real? It remains a topic of much speculation, with no definitive confirmation from either player.
Other related articles on KẾT QUẢ TUCKER:
- The Messi-Ronaldo Rivalry: A Statistical Comparison
- Argentina’s World Cup History: Triumphs and Disappointments
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