Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi will not be able to help the Argentina national team in the upcoming September qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup due to an ankle injury, as confirmed by the South American national team's press service.
Messi's name was notably absent from the list of 28 players called up by head coach Lionel Scaloni for the upcoming matches.
The Argentina national team is scheduled to play two games against Chile and Colombia on September 6 and September 10, respectively. After six rounds, Argentina is leading its qualifying group with 15 points.
It is worth noting that Messi suffered an ankle injury in mid-July during the final of the 2024 Copa America against Colombia, where Argentina won 1-0.
Messi has been representing the Argentina national team since 2006 and is a World Cup champion, an Olympic champion, a two-time Copa America winner, and a champion of the Finalissima.
Previously, Messi became the most decorated football player in history with 45 trophies.
