Lionel Messi will be absent from Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil after being left out of the squad by head coach Lionel Scaloni. The decision comes following confirmation that the 37-year-old superstar has suffered a minor adductor injury while playing for Inter Miami.
Inter Miami issued a statement revealing that Messi underwent an MRI scan after experiencing discomfort during the team’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta United in Major League Soccer. The scan confirmed a “low-grade” adductor muscle injury, meaning the Argentine captain will miss the international break.
“Messi underwent an MRI (scan) 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 club announced. “The examination’s findings 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 had only recently returned from a spell on the sidelines, having missed three consecutive games for Miami before coming off the bench to score in a CONCACAF Champions Cup match against Cavalier. However, this latest setback has ruled him out of crucial international fixtures.
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Messi’s Reaction: ‘Sad to Miss These Games’
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner expressed his disappointment at missing the matches but acknowledged that rest is necessary.
“I’m sad to miss these important games against Uruguay and Brazil,” Messi stated. “I really wanted to play, but a small injury means I need to rest for a bit, so I can’t be there. I’ll be supporting and cheering from here like any other fan. Let’s go, Argentina.”
Messi’s absence is a significant blow for Argentina, who are leading the South American World Cup qualifying standings by five points. The World Cup holders have the opportunity to secure their place in the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, during this international window.
Other Key Absentees for Argentina
Scaloni’s squad will also be missing several other notable names. Paulo Dybala, Gonzalo Montiel, and Giovani Lo Celso have all been ruled out due to injuries. Additionally, promising youngsters Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United) and Claudio Echeverri (Manchester City) were omitted despite being named in an initial squad earlier this month.
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Argentina will face second-placed Uruguay on Friday before hosting Brazil, who currently sit fifth, next Tuesday. With key players sidelined, Scaloni will need to rely on the squad’s depth to maintain their dominant position in the qualifiers.
