Due to a strained muscle, Lionel Messi was left out of Argentina’s squad by coach Lionel Scaloni for the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Uruguay and Brazil.
Messi scored a spectacular goal during Sunday’s Major League Soccer (MLS) match between Inter Miami and Atlanta United, but local media stated that he was experiencing muscle soreness.
The 37-year-old will stay in the United States to recuperate after being excluded from Argentina’s squad on Monday.
Argentina, who have 25 points after 12 games and are leading the CONMEBOL qualification rankings, will visit Uruguay, who are in second position, on Friday.