Initially, Messi was on the Argentina national team’s roster to prepare for two very important matches against Brazil and Uruguay in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. However, an unexpected incident at the last minute forced coach Lionel Scaloni to remove this player’s name.
Accordingly, Messi was injured after the match against Atlanta United in the US Major League Soccer (MLS) on the morning of March 17. According to TyC Sports, El Pulga suffered an adductor injury after trying to make a strong shot with his left foot. Afterwards, the striker held his leg in pain. The striker born in 1987 still tried to play the whole match but was not in the best physical condition.
On his personal page, Messi shared after leaving the Argentina team: “I am very sorry to miss the important matches against Uruguay and Brazil with the Argentina team. Although I really wanted to play, an injury forced me to take a break to recover. I will cheer for the national team like any other fan. Go Argentina!”.
Inter Miami also announced: “The test results confirm that Messi has a minor injury to the adductor muscle. Clinical progress and response to treatment will determine his ability to play.” According to predictions, the number 10 superstar may need 1-2 weeks to recover from the injury.
Messi is 38 years old, so it is difficult for him to meet the requirements of high-intensity competition. He has just returned to play for Inter Miami after 3 matches of rest due to fatigue. Immediately, El Pulga shined when scoring in two consecutive matches against Cavalier (CONCACAF C1 Cup) and Atlanta United (US Major League Soccer) to help Inter Miami win 2.
Messi remains a key player for Argentina. He has played nine matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, scoring six goals and providing three assists. He was absent from two of Argentina’s matches last September, which ended in a win over Chile but a loss to Colombia.
Argentina currently leads the South American qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup with 25 points. The next two matches against Uruguay (6:30 a.m. on March 22) and Brazil (7 a.m. on March 26) are very important for La Albiceleste.
