Lionel Messi Left Out Of Argentina World Cup 2026 Qualifying Squad For September Matches, Know Why

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This September, Argentina will face crucial FIFA World Cup qualification matches against Chile and Colombia. However, they will be without their legendary captain, Lionel Messi, who is still recovering from an injury.

Messi sustained a significant ankle injury during the Copa América final against Colombia this past summer. Despite leading Argentina to victory and lifting his third major international trophy as captain, Messi was forced to leave the field in tears after a hard collision.

His absence from Argentina's squad for the upcoming qualifiers has raised concerns, though it appears to be a precautionary decision rather than an indication of a setback in his recovery.

Messi has also been sidelined from Inter Miami matches since the injury, missing crucial fixtures for the MLS club. Argentina's coaching staff has opted not to rush his return to the national team, mindful of preserving his long-term fitness.

At 37 years old, Messi's injury management is critical to ensuring he remains in top form for future tournaments, including the remainder of the World Cup qualifiers and the 2026 FIFA World Cup itself.

Given Argentina's strong position in the qualification standings, the decision to rest Messi is seen as a strategic one. The team currently tops the leaderboard with 15 points from six games, putting them in an excellent position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

With such a commanding lead, there is little reason to risk Messi's fitness, especially with several qualifying matches still to come. Argentina's September opponents present varying challenges.

Chile, currently struggling in the qualifiers, is not expected to pose a serious threat to the Argentine side. In contrast, Colombia, the team Argentina defeated in the Copa América final, will be looking for revenge.

The match against Colombia, set in the sweltering heat of Barranquilla, will test Argentina's resilience, but the absence of Messi might actually alleviate pressure on the squad, allowing them to focus on adapting without their talismanic captain.

As Argentina prepares for life after Messi, these qualifiers offer an opportunity for the team to develop alternative strategies. With Messi expected to return in the near future -possibly as soon as the October fixtures - Argentina will be looking to maintain their strong form and secure their place in the World Cup while ensuring their star player is fit for the long term.

Argentina will take on Chile at home in Buenos Aires on September 4th, followed by an away clash against Colombia on September 9th. Fans eagerly await Messi's return, but for now, Argentina looks prepared to face the challenges ahead.