Messi, Neymar miss Barcelona US tour

Published July 18, 2015
Argentinian superstar Messi and Brazilian striker Neymar were both omitted after playing for their countries in the Copa America. — AFP/File
Argentinian superstar Messi and Brazilian striker Neymar were both omitted after playing for their countries in the Copa America. — AFP/File

LOS ANGELES: Lionel Messi and Neymar have been left out of Barcelona's squad for the Spanish giants' three-match tour of the United States, the club confirmed Friday.

Argentinian superstar Messi and Brazilian striker Neymar were both omitted after playing for their countries in the Copa America.

Several other internationals who played in the tournament have also been excused from the US tour, including goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, midfielder Javier Mascherano and fullback Dani Alves.

The Champions League winners have however included Luis Suarez in their squad.

The Uruguay striker missed the Copa America as he was still banned for biting Giorgio Chiellini at last year's World Cup finals.

Barcelona play three matches in the United States, opening their tour against the Los Angeles Galaxy Tuesday at the Pasadena Rose Bowl before facing Manchester United at the home of the San Francisco 49ers on July 25.

The team completes its US swing against English champions Chelsea on July 28 in Landover, Maryland.

Barcelona squad

Goalkeepers: Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Jordi Masip, Jose Suarez

Defenders: Gerard Pique, Marc Bartra, Rafinha, Jordi Alba, Douglas, Adriano, Thomas Vermaelen, Jeremy Mathieu

Midfielders: Andres Iniesta, Ivan Rakitic, Arda Turan, Sergio Busquets, Aleix Vidal, Sergi Roberto, Gerard Gumbau, Sergi Samper, Alen Halilovic

Forwards: Luis Suarez, Pedro, Sandro Ramirez, Munir El-Haddadi.

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