Lionel Messi, the iconic 37-year-old forward, has been ruled out of Argentina’s upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying matches against Uruguay and Brazil. This is due to a low-grade adductor muscle injury. The injury was confirmed following an MRI scan. After Messi experienced discomfort during Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta United in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Expressing his disappointment, Messi took to Instagram to share his sentiments:
“It really hurts me to miss these very important matches. I wanted to play, but my injury means I need rest, so I won’t be able to join the team. I’ll be rooting for you like any other fan. Vamos, Argentina!”
Inter Miami released a statement regarding Messi’s condition:
“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.”
In Messi’s absence, Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni has called up a 26-man squad for the crucial fixtures against Uruguay and Brazil. Notable inclusions are Julián Álvarez of Manchester City, who is expected to lead the attack, and emerging talents like Nico Paz, Thiago Almada, and Máximo Perrone, signaling a generational shift within the team.
Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina maintains a strong position in the CONMEBOL qualifying standings, leading with 25 points from 12 games. The team is set to face second-placed Uruguay on March 21 and arch-rivals Brazil on March 25. Brazil will also be without their star forward Neymar, who is sidelined due to a muscle injury.
These upcoming matches are pivotal for Argentina as they aim to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup. The team’s depth and the emergence of new talents will be tested in the absence of their veteran leaders.
