Argentina will have to navigate their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers without Lionel Messi, as coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed his absence on Monday. The 37-year-old forward was left out of the 25-man squad for the crucial matches against Uruguay and Brazil, raising concerns among fans and media alike.
While the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has not officially disclosed the reason behind Messi’s exclusion, reports suggest the decision stems from a sore left thigh sustained during Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta United in Major League Soccer (MLS) on Sunday. Despite playing the full 90 minutes and scoring in his return to the starting XI, fitness concerns have led to his omission.
Inter Miami’s Cautious Approach to Messi’s Fitness
Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano addressed Messi’s condition following the Atlanta United match, emphasizing the club’s efforts to manage his workload throughout the season.
"We tried to take away from the overload Messi had, so that it wouldn't go further than that. We tried to handle it in the best way. Luckily, we were able to control it and that it didn't turn into an injury or much more," Mascherano explained.
Mascherano also reassured that Inter Miami’s medical team has been in close contact with Argentina’s staff regarding Messi’s fitness.
"Obviously, the Argentinian national team doctors are in contact with the doctors here, and they are the ones who specifically talk about that," he added.
Messi was initially included in Argentina’s 33-man provisional squad but was later omitted from the final selection, disappointing fans ahead of the highly anticipated clashes.
Argentina Face Key Qualifiers Without Messi and Other Stars
Currently, Argentina leads the South American standings with 25 points from playing 12 matches. The Argentines will host poised second, Uruguay, Friday and then Brazil four days later at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.
Messi's absence is not the only concern of La Albiceleste, as their lineup will also miss important players Paulo Dybala, Gonzalo Montiel, and Giovani Lo Celso in the upcoming game. Their absence may prove challenging for the Scaloni squad as they look to consolidate their position atop the qualifiers table.
With matches against two of South America's biggest rivals, Argentina will need to dig deeper into its squad resources if it hopes to retain its dominance in the qualifying race.