Jubilation at Man City as Lionel Messi is confirmed to feature at Etihad come March

macfranc007 February 02, 2018 IFTTT, Latest Sport News | Today on Naij.com Arinze Esomnofu

- Manchester City boss has never hidden his admiration for Barcelona star man Lionel Messi

- And from all indication, inabscence of a deal, City fans will get to see the starman play on their home turf

- Lionel Messi will play at the Etihad stadium for Argentina international friendly game against Italy

Barcelona star forward, Lionel Messi, will play at the Etihad stadium for Argentina international friendly game against Italy.

Premier League leaders, Manchester City, have been linked with a sensational move for the Barcelona star on several occasions but they have not succeeded in tempting the Camp Nou outfit to let go of their star-man.

Lionel Messi could be on his way to Manchester City’s Etihad as early as March

City gaffer, Pep Guardiola, would love nothing more than to have Messi in his team after the duo enjoyed stunning success together at his stint at Barcelona.

And the Spanish boss could be about to have an emotional reunion with the 30-year-old in the North West in just two months though this time around, there will be no transfer dealings involved.

Argentina captain Messi is set to play for his country at City's home ground (Etihad stadium) after the stadium was confirmed as the venue for their international friendly with Italy.

The showdown will act as a warm-up for the La Albiceleste before next summer's World Cup.

It will be the first time that Italy will have played since suffering their humiliating World Cup exit at the hands of Sweden.

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The Scandinavians overcame the four-time World Cup winners as Italy missed out on qualifying for the showpiece for the first time since 1958.

And that means a host of their stars such as Gianluigi Buffon, Daniele De Rossi, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini will not be available after announcing their international retirement.

The last international match to be held at the Etihad was England's 2-1 victory over Turkey in 2016.

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