Lionel Messi ruled out for Argentina

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi will miss Argentina's international friendly against Italy on Wednesday with a muscular problem.

The 26-year-old is believed to have suffered the strain on his club's pre-season tour of Asia, but it is not expected to keep him on the sidelines for an extended period of time.

However, Real Madrid winger Angel di Maria and Napoli forward Gonzalo Higuain are both expected to start at the Stadio Olimpico.

Barcelona open their league campaign at home to Levante on Sunday.