Lionel Messi doubtful for Barcelona's match against Celta Vigo on Sunday

Lionel Messi is a doubt for Barcelona’s match against Celta Vigo on Sunday, due to a lingering issue with his right foot.

The last time Messi appeared was prior to the international break during his side’s 2-1 El Clasico victory over Real Madrid on March 22.

The forward reportedly picked up the knock during the second leg of Barcelona’s Champions League tie against Manchester City but pushed to be included in the first-place showdown with their El Clasico rivals.

Since that time, the Argentina international failed to dress for either of the national team’s friendlies against El Salvador and Ecuador.

The issue appears to be a swollen toe on his right foot which has caused the Argentine discomfort when he puts on his boots.

Even though the injury is not considered serious, it prevented Messi from participating in full training while on international duty.

When asked why the forward wasn’t flown back to Barcelona once the injury was first discovered, Messi’s management company responded: “If he had a bad injury he would have gone straight back to Barcelona, but it is true it is painful to him. When he gets back they will do tests on him to evaluate his condition.”

Messi is due back in Barcelona today. The next 24-48 hours will determine whether or not the Argentine will be fit enough to feature against Celta Vigo on Sunday.

It can be expected that the club will take every precaution with their star player since they face a demanding month of football.

Barcelona are preparing to play eight games in 25 days, including a Champions League quarter-final tie with Paris Saint-Germain, and important league fixtures against Sevilla and Valencia.

Programming note: Celta Vigo vs. Barcelona will be shown LIVE on Sunday starting at 1:55pm EST on beINSPORTS en español and DishWorld.