Argentina captain Lionel Messi has confirmed he will not play in the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match against Ecuador on September 10, citing recovery needs following his recent return from injury. The decision, made in consultation with national team coach Lionel Scaloni, follows Argentina’s 3-0 win over Venezuela in Buenos Aires.
“I spoke with Leo (Scaloni) and we decided, or rather he decided, that I should rest,” Messi said after the match. “I’m coming back from an injury and although I’m fine now, we prefer to avoid travelling and playing another game, so I can rest up for what’s coming next.”
Messi, who scored twice in the victory at Estadio Monumental, will remain in Argentina while his teammates travel to Guayaquil for the fixture at Estadio Monumental Isidro Romero Carbo. The decision comes as Argentina aims to balance squad rotation with long-term player fitness.
The Venezuela match marked a symbolic moment for Messi, with fans gathering in a sold-out stadium to watch what may be one of his last appearances on home soil in a World Cup qualifier. “Being able to finish this way here is what I’ve always dreamed of,” said Messi. “I’ve experienced a lot of things on this pitch, both good and not so good, but it’s always a joy to play in Argentina, in front of our fans.”
Messi found the net in the 39th and 80th minutes, while Lautaro Martinez added a third in the 76th, sealing an emphatic win that further solidifies Argentina’s dominance in the South American qualifiers.
With 36 goals, Messi continues to lead as the all-time top scorer in South American World Cup qualifying history. His closest rival, former teammate Luis Suarez, trails with 29 goals but has since retired from Uruguay’s national team. Bolivia’s Marcelo Moreno Martins stands third with 22.
At 38, Messi’s international future remains a subject of speculation. While he has yet to confirm his retirement plans, the qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup are set to begin in 2027, by which time he would be 40.
As Argentina looks ahead, all eyes will be on how the squad performs without its talisman in Ecuador, and whether Messi’s absence marks a new chapter in his illustrious career.
