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18 March 2025

Lionel Messi To Miss Important World Cup Qualifiers Due To Injury

Argentina's star player sidelined after groin strain, coach Scaloni faces tough decisions for upcoming matches.

Lionel Messi will miss Argentina’s qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup 2026 after suffering a groin strain during Inter Miami’s victory over Atlanta United on March 16, 2025. Inter Miami confirmed the injury with a statement released on March 17, stating Messi suffered from a low-grade injury to his adductor muscle and would not participate in the upcoming international fixtures.

Following the club's announcement, Messi was left off the national team roster for matches against Uruguay on March 21 and Brazil on March 25. Manager Lionel Scaloni is now faced with the challenge of leading Argentina through these pivotal matches without their star player. Argentina is on track to secure qualification for the World Cup, currently topping the South American qualifying group with 25 points after 12 matches, five points clear of second-placed Uruguay.

At 37, Messi’s health has become increasingly delicate, leading to concerns over his participation since he has already missed three games earlier this month due to load management. He did, nevertheless, return for the Concacaf Champions Cup and even scored against Atlanta, showcasing his capacity to impact games. "It’s sad to miss these two very special matches with the national team against Uruguay and Brazil. Like always, I wanted to be there, but at the last minute, I suffered an injury. It wasn't serious," Messi expressed on his Instagram account. This demonstrates his relationship with the team and his eagerness to contribute, making his absence all the more poignant.

Inter Miami officials revealed Messi underwent MRI scans on the same day they learnt about his exclusion from the roster. “The examination findings confirmed the presence of low-grade injury. His clinical progress and response to treatment will determine his availability for competition,” stated Inter Miami. The uncertainty surrounding Messi's recovery raises concerns for both his club and the national team as they navigate the rigors of their respective schedules.

Argentina will also be without several other key players, including Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Montiel, who have been ruled out due to injuries. The absence of Dybala, who adds depth to Argentina’s attacking options, is particularly worrying as they prepare to face high-stakes rivals. Other notable exclusions from the roster include Giovani Lo Celso, Alejandro Garnacho, and Claudio Echeverri. Despite these lost elements, Argentina’s current standing makes them strong contenders for qualification.

Messi’s continued fitness challenges this season have led to some frustrations among fans and observers. After returning on March 13 to contribute as a substitute against Cavalier FC, he was expected to be fit for the Atlanta United match but suffered the injury nonetheless during play. The coach of Inter Miami, Javier Mascherano, had previously decided to rest Messi to optimize his longevity throughout the season, particularly with the inaugural Club World Cup approaching this summer.

This most recent injury adds to the narrative of Messi’s storied career. Having faced multiple injuries throughout his long resilience-based career, the fans’ fears are only heightened by the eagerness to see him shine once again on the international stage. The soccer world will also be keeping one eye on Argentina's upcoming matches. With Uruguay set to be their first test, Argentina can solidify their qualification, but the absence of Messi adds additional pressure on their execution.

"His clinical progress and response to treatment will be closely monitored; timelines for recovery remain vague, adding uncertainties to future fixtures," stated Inter Miami management. While Messi and fans remain hopeful for his return to the pitch during the forthcoming MLS season, including the anticipated home match against the Philadelphia Union on March 29, it is undeniable the extent to which his presence is missed—not just by Inter Miami but also by the national team. With World Cup qualification on the line, the matches against Uruguay and Brazil will undoubtedly be pivotal for Argentina's campaign.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup stands at the horizon, but Messi’s health remains the question mark looming over Argentina's aspirations. For many, including his teammates, his absence feels like the team's battle to overcome injury may turn this dream run challenging; they must now adapt their strategies without one of the greatest soccer players of all time leading their charge.

Fans and analysts wait with bated breath as to whether Messi can recover swiftly and return to the international field soon after. Whether the team can hold strong without him will reveal much about their strength as competitors—especially against rivals like Brazil, who have their concerns over the fitness of forward Neymar, also sidelined by injury.