Lionel Messi has been excluded from Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualification matches against Uruguay and Brazil due to a muscle injury. Despite scored a fantastic goal in Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta United on Sunday, Messi experienced muscle problems and received worry about a potential tear.
To prevent further damage, Messi will remain in the United States for treatment and recovery, This means he will not be available to join the Lionel Scaloni’s squad. This is a significant blow to Argentina, given the importance of these matches in their quest to qualify for the World Cup 2026.
Argentina Currently, the World Cup qualifier leads with 25 points, five points before second place and seven points ahead of Brazil. While Argentina is in a leading position, Messi’s absence is still a setback, especially against such strong rivals. The absence of Messi will require Scaloni to adjust its tactical attitude.
Messi suffered from the adductor injuries while taking a powerful left photo during Sunday’s match. He immediately showed signs of discomfort and while he continued to play, he is then excluded after undergoing additional medical evaluation on Monday. The evaluation confirmed a muscle injury and has been a cause for concern for fans and Argentina coaching personnel.

Tactical adjustments and potential replacements
Nicolás González is the likely compensation for Messi Initially eleven. However, González’s role would differ significantly from Messis, given his usual position on the left wing and increased defensive responsibility.
De Paul and Mac Allists will have to compensate for Messi’s game abilityWhile Lautaro Martínez can assume a more withdrawn role to facilitate the team’s play. The tactical changes required to compensate for Messi’s absence are significant and can affect the results of these critical matches.

This too provides an opportunity for Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez To show that they can play together in Argentina’s attack. Scaloni has used this approach earlier at times when Messi was not available for other reasons.
Messi’s absence Provides an opportunity for other players to demonstrate their abilities and invest in their demands on a place in the team. While his leadership and talent will surely miss, the absence of Messi emphasizes the need for Argentina to develop a strong team that can succeed even in his absence.
At 37 years, Messi’s career is approaching its end and raises questions about Argentina’s future in addition to his game year. While he is likely to be part of the World Cup squad in 2026, his participation will depend on his physical condition. Anyway, Argentina coaching staff must start planning for an ERA after Messi and building a team that can succeed without the presence of the captain. His reduced playing time in the future will require the team to adjust and build on their current forces while developing new strategies.