‘I am sad’ — Lionel Messi expresses disappointment after being left out of Argentina squad for World Cup qualifiers

Argentina will have to navigate their next two World Cup qualifiers without their star player, Lionel Messi. 

The 37-year-old Inter Miami forward has been left out of the squad due to an injury he picked up in Major League Soccer.

While he returned to action recently and helped Miami secure a win over Atlanta United, the team later confirmed that he has a minor adductor muscle injury.

This means Messi will miss Argentina’s crucial matches against Uruguay and Brazil. With the national team just a step away from securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup, his absence could be a big challenge for the squad.

Messi is not the only big name missing from Argentina’s squad. Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate full-back Gonzalo Montiel are also out due to injuries. This leaves Argentina without two more experienced players who have been part of their success in recent years.

Meanwhile, Messi has delivered an emotional update ahead of his nation's games against rivals Uruguay and Brazil.

He revealed that he will miss Argentina's upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Uruguay and Brazil due to a "small injury."

He took to social media to express his disappointment at missing the upcoming matches: "I am sad to miss these important games against Uruguay and Brazil with the national team.

"I really wanted to play but a small injury means I need to rest for a bit, so I can't be there. I'll be supporting and cheering from here like any other fan. Let's go, Argentina!"

The Inter Miami superstar, who has been carefully managing his workload to avoid burnout, suffered a muscle strain during a recent MLS game against Atlanta United.

With 191 international caps already under his belt, Messi will be eager to return to action and lead his country in their World Cup title defense next summer.

Despite his absence, Argentina remains well-positioned to secure World Cup qualification, sitting five points clear at the top of the CONMEBOL table.

Argentina currently leads the South American qualifying table with a five-point advantage over Uruguay. 
With six games remaining, the team is in a strong position to qualify. However, missing their captain and top scorer could make these next matches difficult.