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New Delhi: Lionel Messi has been left out of Argentina's squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil. The 37-year-old star was excluded from the 25-man list announced by coach Lionel Scaloni on Monday, raising questions about his fitness. While the Argentine Football Association has not officially disclosed the reason for his omission, reports suggest that Messi suffered a sore left thigh during Inter Miami’s 2-1 win over Atlanta United on Sunday.
Fitness Concerns Surrounding Messi
Messi’s fitness has been under scrutiny in recent weeks, with concerns growing over his ability to play consistently. He has already missed several matches for Inter Miami this season. Coach Javier Mascherano admitted that the club has been cautious with Messi’s fitness to prevent any potential injuries. Messi missed games against Houston Dynamo, Cavalier SC, and Charlotte FC, but returned to action last Thursday for Miami’s CONCACAF Champions Cup tie against Cavalier.
Messi was deemed fit to start against Atlanta United, and he scored in the 20th minute of the match, but it appears that he picked up the injury shortly after. The news has sparked concerns about his fitness ahead of key matches for both his club and national team.
Argentina to Face Key Opponents Without Messi
Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina currently lead the qualification standings with 25 points. They will face second-place Uruguay on Friday and host fifth-place Brazil four days later at Monumental Stadium. These fixtures could be crucial in confirming Argentina’s place in the 2026 World Cup. However, Argentina will have to manage these important matches without their talismanic captain, Messi.
Other Key Absences from Argentina’s Squad
Messi is not the only notable omission from the squad. Paulo Dybala, Gonzalo Montiel, and Giovani Lo Celso have also been ruled out due to injury concerns. Additionally, Alejandro Garnacho and Claudio Echeverri were dropped from the squad initially named on March 2.
Argentina Faces Challenges Ahead
Argentina will now have to cope without their best player in two vital World Cup qualification matches. The absence of Messi, combined with other key players missing, means Argentina will need to rely on their remaining squad to secure the crucial points needed to confirm their qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Looking Ahead: Messi’s Recovery and the Copa América
With Copa América approaching, fans will be hoping that Messi recovers quickly. His absence from these qualifiers may raise concerns, but the focus will now shift to his recovery and the potential return of Argentina’s captain for future competitions. Argentina’s footballing community will be hoping Messi’s fitness issues are resolved soon so that he can lead his country with the same brilliance he has shown in the past.
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