Lionel Messi Ruled Out of Argentina’s World Cup Qualifiers Against Uruguay and Brazil Due to Injury

Lionel Messi has been excluded from Argentina's squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to a muscle strain. The 37-year-old forward experienced discomfort after scoring in Inter Miami's 2-1 victory over Atlanta United in Major League Soccer. Consequently, Messi will remain in the United States to focus on his recovery. 

Argentina currently leads the CONMEBOL qualifying standings with 25 points from 12 games. They are scheduled to face second-placed Uruguay on Friday and Brazil on March 25. Notably, Brazil will also be without Neymar, who was set to return to the national team after over a year but suffered a muscle injury. 

In Messi's absence, Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, has called up 26 players, including Julián Álvarez, Rodrigo De Paul, Giuliano Simeone, Ángel Correa, and Nahuel Molina. The squad also features new talents such as Nico Paz, Thiago Almada, and Máximo Perrone. Other notable absences due to injuries include Alejandro Garnacho, Lisandro Martínez, Enzo Barrenechea, Giovani Lo Celso, Paulo Dybala, and Gonzalo Montiel. 

Inter Miami's head coach, Javier Mascherano, has previously emphasized the importance of managing Messi's fitness carefully to prevent injuries. Despite Messi's recent physical issues, he demonstrated improved form by scoring two goals in two matches before being sidelined for a 15-day rest period due to new discomforts.