Messi Ruled Out of Argentina’s World Cup Qualifiers Due to Injury
Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has been left out of Argentina’s squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil.
The 37-year-old recently returned to Miami’s starting lineup in their MLS win over Atlanta United but reportedly sustained an injury during the match. Inter Miami later confirmed that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has a “low-grade” adductor muscle injury.
Messi had already been rested for three games before coming off the bench to score in last week’s Concacaf Champions Cup win against Cavalier in Jamaica.
Argentina, leading the South American qualifiers by five points, could secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with positive results in this round. With six matches left, Uruguay trails in second, while Brazil sits in fifth, seven points behind the reigning world champions.
Messi, currently the top scorer in the qualifiers with six goals, has 112 international goals in 191 appearances. Argentina will also be without Roma’s Paulo Dybala and River Plate’s Gonzalo Montiel due to injuries.
Brazil will be missing Neymar, as the former Barcelona forward is sidelined with a thigh injury, delaying his return to the national team.
