Lionel Messi has been left out of Argentina's squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Chile.

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• Messi recuperating from ankle injury
• Argentina leave Inter Miami star out of squad
• Aiming to defend World Cup in north America

• Table of Contents

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Argentina have announced their squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia and Messi has been omitted. The Inter Miami star damaged his ankle during the 2024 Copa America final and has not kicked a ball since; his recovery is being prioritised, as a result, by both club and country.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Argentina do have an abundance of attacking options; Alejandro Garnacho, Giuliano Simeone, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez and Valentin Castellanos will have to shoulder the burden of finding the back of the net for the world champions. Messi will instead focus on getting back to full fitness.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Messi has already misssed the MLS All-Star game as well as Inter Miami's Leagues Cup defence. The Herons return to domestic action on August 24, against FC Cincinnati, but Messi has not yet returned to the training pitch.

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Argentina play Chile on September 6 before taking on Colombia on September 10 as they aim to qualify for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Messi's side, of course, are aiming to secure back-to-back trophies.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News