Lionel Messi injured: Barcelona includes Argentina to face Real Madrid in the semifinals of the Copa del Rey Clasico



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The Argentine star could still undergo a fitness test late following a thigh injury suffered this weekend, just before Wednesday's clashes at Camp Nou

Barcelona included Lionel Messi in his 19-match squad for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday against Real Madrid at Camp Nou.

Blaugrana manager Ernesto Valverde has yet to dismiss a player from his squad, which means it's possible that Messi is still missing due to a thigh injury.

The Argentine star was injured Saturday in the 2-2 draw against Barcelona in Barcelona.

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Although Messi played the entire match and scored two goals, Valverde confirmed after the match that the 31-year-old had a "small problem" and that he would face tests to see if he would ready for Wednesday.

"We will have to wait to see what the medical staff will say.If it is fit, it will play Wednesday," said Valverde Saturday.

Messi did not take part in a full training on Monday, but returned to join his teammates on Tuesday for their last session before facing their big rivals.

Although Messi was included in the gameday team, Ousmane Dembele missed the boat due to a problem at the ankle. The Blaugrana are still hoping that the French international will be ready for Sunday 's La Liga match against the Athletic Club.

Dembele joins goaltender Jasper Cillessen, who has been ruled out for six weeks because of a calf injury, as well as Samuel Umtiti and Rafinha.

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Earlier Tuesday, Valverde had not taken a position on the status of his star player.

"If Leo is ready, then he will play – he does not, he will not do it," said Valverde. But I do not think it changes the favorite. If he is fit, he will be in the team and if he is not, he will not be. "

Madrid and Barcelona will meet in the second stage of the semi-final on February 27 in Santiago Bernabeu. Three days later, the teams will meet in a La Liga match.

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