Argentina captain Lionel Messi has been omitted from the squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil after suffering a minor injury. The 37-year-old forward, who plays for Inter Miami, reportedly picked up the injury during his side’s recent Major League Soccer (MLS) win over Atlanta United.
Messi had recently returned to Miami’s starting line-up but was taken off as a precaution during Sunday’s game. Inter Miami later confirmed that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is dealing with a “low-grade” adductor muscle injury, raising concerns over his fitness.
The Argentine star had been carefully managed in recent weeks, sitting out three MLS games before making a substitute appearance in Miami’s Concacaf Champions Cup victory over Jamaican side Cavalier, where he scored. However, the latest setback has ruled him out of international duty.
Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina is in a strong position in South America’s World Cup qualifying group. The defending champions currently lead the 10-team standings with a five-point cushion over second-placed Uruguay. Brazil, traditionally a powerhouse, finds itself in an unusual position, sitting in fifth place, seven points behind Argentina.
With six matches remaining, the top six teams will automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup, while the seventh-placed nation will enter a play-off. If Argentina secures positive results in this round, they could confirm their place in next year’s tournament.
Messi remains a key player in Argentina’s campaign, leading the scoring charts with six goals from 12 games. His international record now stands at an impressive 112 goals from 191 appearances.
Messi is not the only notable absentee for Argentina. Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate full-back Gonzalo Montiel are also missing from the squad due to injuries.
Meanwhile, Brazil will be without Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Neymar. The 33-year-old Santos forward is sidelined with a thigh injury, preventing his return to the national team at a crucial stage in their campaign.
Argentina will face Uruguay away before hosting Brazil in a high-stakes clash. With or without Messi, La Albiceleste will aim to maintain their dominance and move one step closer to World Cup qualification.
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