Home
Argentina’s legendary forward Lionel Messi recently addressed his absence from the national squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil. Messi, who has been struggling with fitness issues this season, sustained a “low-grade” adductor injury, which was confirmed by his club, Inter Miami. The 37-year-old experienced discomfort during Inter Miami's 2-1 victory over Atlanta United, where he scored the opening goal.
Messi’s injury comes as a setback not only for his club but also for the Argentine national team, as he will be sidelined during these crucial matches. Despite returning to action in the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup round-of-16 tie against Cavalier SC, the recent injury has ruled him out of the international break.
Messi Expresses Disappointment on Instagram
Taking to Instagram, Messi expressed his disappointment at missing the high-profile clashes.
“It’s sad to miss these two very special matches with the National Team against Uruguay and Brazil. As always, I wanted to be there, but at the last moment, a not-so-serious injury that forces me to stop for a while before returning to play left me out,” Messi posted.
Vows to Support as a Fan
Although unable to play, Messi assured fans that he will be supporting the team from the sidelines.
“From here, I will be cheering and supporting as just another fan. Vamos Argentina!” he concluded.
Argentina’s Qualification Hopes Without Messi
Argentina, the defending World Cup champions, remain at the top of the 10-team South American qualifying group, holding a five-point lead ahead of their clash with Uruguay in Montevideo. These two games could potentially secure their spot in next year’s World Cup.
Other Notable Absentees
Along with Messi, Argentina will also be without Roma’s Paulo Dybala and River Plate’s Paulo Montiel due to injuries. Additionally, head coach Lionel Scaloni has opted to leave out Alejandro Garnacho and Claudio Echeverri from the final squad announced on March 2.
With Messi cheering from the sidelines, Argentina hopes to maintain their momentum as they face two of their toughest rivals in the qualifiers.
