Barca stand firm over Messi

Catalans on collision course with star striker

Last updated: 17th June 2008

Barca stand firm over Messi

Lionel Messi: Olympics dream over?

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Barcelona will block Lionel Messi playing for Argentina at the Beijing Olympics, unless they are legally compelled to do release the striker.

The Spanish giants want Messi to feature in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tie on 12th/13th August.

But this game clashes with the Olympics, which take place from 6th-23rd August.

Barcelona's stance is sure to set them on a collision course with the 20-year-old forward, who said last month it would be his decision to go, if selected, adding he was excited by the prospect of playing.

But Barca's sports director Txiki Beguiristain told a news conference: "The regulations will decide. If they protect us he will play the Champions League qualifier, if not, we are obliged to let him go to the Olympics.

Favour us

"It isn't the player's decision and we understand the regulations favour us."

New Barca coach Pep Guardiola, speaking at his official presentation, added: "I hope we will have all our players together from the first day, because the sooner we have everyone together the better."

The stance by the Spanish giants could also affect Brazil full-back Dani Alves who has agreed a move to the Catalan club from Sevilla, though the transfer has not yet been completed.

But neither Argentina nor Brazil have announced their squads for the Olympics. Players under the age of 23 are allowed to take part, plus three over-age players.

The second leg of Barcelona's Champions League qualifier will take place on either 26th or 27th of August.