Messi missed Argentina's friendly victories over El Salvador and Ecuador due to swelling on his right foot, but Pique expects the 27-year-old to return for his club this weekend.

"I'm optimistic about Messi," said the defender. "I spoke with him and I think he'll be able to play at Balaidos [Celta's ground].

"But it depends on how he feels this week.

"It's the team doctors who have to decide. But from what I can gather, he'll be okay."