Lionel Messi's groin injury has persisted and there is no timetable for his return.

Messi will sit out Argentina's match against Venezuela on Tuesday.

"Tests conducted today on first team player Leo Messi have confirmed that the discomfort in his left adductor muscle persists," said Barcelona in a statement.

"It's advised he lowers the burden of training in the coming days and the evolution of the injury will mark his availability to return to action."

Messi himself posted a message of reassurance to his fans via his Facebook account on Monday, saying: "Everything is fine, I have to slow things down as I recover with physio, but it's nothing to worry about. Thanks to you all for your support."