Messi breaks silence on missing World Cup qualifiers against Brazil, Uruguay: ‘It’s a shame to…’
Lionel Messi confirmed his absence from Argentina’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to a minor adductor injury. Inter Miami’s medical team diagnosed the issue after Messi experienced discomfort in a 2-1 win over Atlanta United, where he scored the opening goal.
Messi’s season in the U.S. has been inconsistent due to ongoing fitness concerns. He missed three games earlier this month but returned for Inter Miami’s CONCACAF Champions Cup clash against Cavalier SC. However, his latest injury setback forces him to sit out Argentina’s crucial qualifiers.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner addressed fans on Instagram. “It’s sad to miss these two very special matches with the National Team. I wanted to be there, but a minor injury forces me to stop for a while,” he wrote. Messi assured supporters he would cheer for Argentina as a fan, adding, “Vamos Argentina!”
Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, currently lead the 10-team South American qualifying group by five points. Their next two matches could secure early qualification for the 2026 tournament.
Coach Lionel Scaloni will also have to adjust without key players. Injuries ruled out Roma’s Paulo Dybala and River Plate’s Paulo Montiel. Scaloni also dropped Alejandro Garnacho and Claudio Echeverri from the squad announced on March 2.
Despite missing their captain and other key players, Argentina remains focused on maintaining their top spot in the qualifiers.
