Lionel Messi Illness: Updates on Barcelona Star's Status and Return

Barcelona's Lionel Messi was forced to miss Dec. 17's Club World Cup semi-final with Guangzhou Evergrande because of renal colic. However, his absence was short-lasting.

Continue for updates.

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Messi Returns for Club World Cup Final

Sunday, Dec. 20

The Argentinian's name was among the starting XI for Barca's showdown with River Plate in the Club World Cup final, as relayed by AS.

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Barca Boosted by Messi Brilliance

The little genius scored the opener in Sunday's final, inspiring Barca to their fifth major trophy of an incredible year.

For manager Luis Enrique, any absence for his talisman leaves a giant hole in the team.

Both Messi and Neymar missed the semi-final, leaving Luis Suarez as their only regular starter in attack. Back-up forwards Munir El Haddadi and Sandro Ramirez have both failed to impress when given the opportunity this season.

Not only does Messi contribute goals at an extraordinarily prolific rate, but he is a player who is becoming increasingly prominent in Barcelona’s buildup play, notching assists, controlling games and quickening the tempo of forward forays.

His return allows Barca to be at their very best.