Argentina coach explains Messi's absence from upcoming matches
Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni has clarified why forward Lionel Messi has not been called up for the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifier matches.
"I spoke with Messi to assess how he is feeling. He hasn't begun training yet, so it was too soon to call him up. He mentioned that he is already feeling better, and it's just a matter of time before he returns. I hope he recovers in time for the next national team matches," Scaloni told TyC Sports.
Messi sustained a leg injury during the 2024 Copa America final against Colombia (1-0).
In September, Argentina will play two matches—against Chile on the 6th and Colombia on the 10th.
