The captain of the Argentina National Team, Lionel Messi, will be the major absentee in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil. 

The Moment Messi Got Injured

The match against Atlanta United seemed to be another brilliant night for Messi, who had scored a goal and was leading Inter Miami towards victory. However, everything changed in the 63rd minute when the Rosario native took a powerful left-footed shot to the near post. Brad Guzan, the Atlanta United goalkeeper, managed to block the shot, but immediately afterward, Messi placed his hand on his left adductor, showing signs of pain.

Despite the discomfort, the Argentina captain continued playing, and a few minutes later, he had another clear goal-scoring chance inside the box, connecting with a volley that went just wide. However, towards the end of the match, it was noticeable that something wasn’t right: Messi chose not to take a corner kick and allowed his teammate Fafà Picault to handle it instead.

In the locker room, the Inter Miami medical staff assessed the situation and recommended further tests to rule out any serious injury. Ultimately, the results confirmed a small tear in his left adductor, leading to his removal from the Argentina National Team squad.

The Biggest Loss for Scaloni

Coach Lionel Scaloni will have to reorganize his squad without his captain and offensive leader. In addition to Messi, other key players such as Paulo Dybala, Gonzalo Montiel, Giovani Lo Celso, and Lisandro Martínez will also be unavailable due to various injuries.

Argentina, which currently leads the South American World Cup Qualifiers, will face two crucial matches against Uruguay and Brazil, their closest rivals. However, Messi’s absence could alter Scaloni’s plans, as he now needs to find alternatives to replace the creativity and leadership of the Rosario star.

For now, Messi will stay in the United States, focusing on his recovery and getting back to full fitness for future Inter Miami and Argentina fixtures.