Lionel Messi not included on Argentina Squad for September World Cup Qualifiers
Lionel Messi will not play for Argentina in the resumption of World Cup 2026 qualification as he is not part of the squad presented by Lionel Scaloni.
Lionel Messi’s return to the pitch will have to wait. Many expected the Inter Miami star to return to Argentina in September, but it has emerged that the 37-year-old is ruled out for the upcoming international window.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has named a squad for World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Chile and Colombia without Messi, who is still recovering from an ankle injury.
The 8-time Ballon d’Or winner has been on the sidelines since July 14. 66 minutes into the Copa America 2024 final in Miami, Messi broke down in tears as he was overcome by pain and replaced by Nicolas Gonzalez.
The former FC Barcelona star looks devastated on the bench. While the picture of him crying went viral, fans also noticed that Leo Messi’s ankle was swollen and in a very bad condition that night.
Although Leo did not have to undergo surgery, he is undergoing a long recovery as he still has to train with the rest of his Inter Miami teammates. In fact, the date of his return remains unclear.
Argentina Squad:
Sem Messi, ainda se recuperando, e sem Di MarÃa, agora aposentado da seleção, Argentina tem a lista para os jogos de setembro pelas eliminatórias. pic.twitter.com/AdVcp59qbz
— Leonardo Bertozzi (@lbertozzi) August 19, 2024
