The race for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues in South America during the March international break, with Argentina, the reigning world champions, currently leading the way.
La Albiceleste are at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying table and could secure a spot at next summer’s tournament if they are 13 points ahead of seventh place after their matches with Uruguay and Brazil.
However, two crucial encounters will be played without eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, who has not been named in Argentina’s squad for the March fixtures. Here’s why Messi will not be involved in the upcoming matches.
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Why is Lionel Messi not playing for Argentina against Uruguay or Brazil?
Messi, Argentina’s all-time record appearance maker and goal scorer, was left out of the March squad by coach Lionel Scaloni after suffering an injury setback during Inter Miami’s MLS match against Atlanta United on Sunday evening.
While Messi scored and played the full 90 minutes in the 2-1 victory, it was later revealed that he sustained an adductor injury. The injury isn’t expected to keep him out for long, but Messi will miss Argentina’s upcoming games against Uruguay on Friday and Brazil next Wednesday.
An Inter Miami statement on Monday read: “Messi underwent an MRI this morning to assess the extent of the discomfort in his adductor region, which he experienced during last night’s match against Atlanta United. The examination confirmed the presence of a low-grade injury in the adductor muscle. His clinical progress and response to treatment will determine his availability for competition.”
Messi also shared on Instagram: “It’s a shame to miss these special games with the Argentine national team against Brazil and Uruguay. As always, I wanted to be there, but at the last minute, an injury that isn’t serious forced me to take a break before returning to play. But I will be supporting and cheering from here like a fan. Let’s go Argentina!”
When will Lionel Messi play for Argentina next?
Messi will have to wait several months before returning to international duty with Argentina, as their next match is scheduled for early June. La Albiceleste will resume their World Cup qualification campaign against Chile, followed by a clash with Colombia a few days later.
These matches will give Messi the opportunity to increase his appearance tally for Argentina to 184 and potentially add to his 112 goals with the national team.
