Barca to miss Messi for Milan tie (14 Apr 2006 07:00 GMT)
The FC Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi is to return to Argentina on Tuesday for treatment after suffering a setback in his recovery from a thigh injury. The 18-year-old will spend eight days in his homeland, ruling him out of both legs of the Champions League semi-final against AC Milan.
Messi sustained the problem in the second leg of Barca's first knockout round elimination of Chelsea FC on 7 March. Medical staff at Camp Nou decided an operation was not necessary and estimated that the teenager would return within four weeks after rest. He had resumed training but did not appear for Tuesday's session after feeling discomfort in this right thigh.
Coach Frank Rijkaard said: "I think Messi tried to rush back when he hadn't fully recovered. He needs more time and it will probably be good for him to have a change of scenery and to get completely fit."
Argentina national team doctor Donato Villanic added: "It's a complicated sort of tear. He's going to need three or four more weeks treatment. In my opinion he will be ready to play only one more game this season and that will be the Champions League final."
source : UEFA