- Lionel Messi will miss Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to a minor abductor tear
- Argentina will also be without Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Montiel, both sidelined with injuries
- The reigning world champions are on the verge of securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup
Key Takeaways:
Lionel Messi will not play for Argentina in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil. The Inter Miami star suffered a minor abductor tear during his team’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta on Sunday in Major League Soccer.
His coach at the American club, Javier Mascherano, a former Argentina captain himself, informed national team manager Lionel Scaloni, and the decision was made in consultation with the player. There is no point in risking a more serious injury for the 37-year-old legend.
🚨 Leo Messi: “I’m sad to miss these important games against Uruguay and Brazil”.
“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”. pic.twitter.com/0HL4W0qzbd
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 18, 2025
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has played 191 matches and scored 112 goals for the national team, winning every possible trophy. The reigning world champions will also be without Paulo Dybala (Roma) and Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate), who are sidelined with injuries.
Argentina will visit Uruguay on Saturday before hosting Brazil next Wednesday. The world champions have practically secured their place at the 2026 World Cup, sitting atop the standings with 25 points and six rounds remaining. The top six teams qualify directly for the tournament, while the seventh-placed team will enter a playoff.