Football

Messi omitted from Argentina squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers

19 Aug 16:49

Tom Weller/dpa

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has been left out of Argentina's squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The Argentine Football Association's press service released the final roster, which includes 28 players in total.

The matches are scheduled for September 6 and 10, with Argentina set to face Chile and Colombia. After six rounds, Argentina leads the qualifying group with 15 points.

Messi last took to the pitch on July 15 in the Copa América final against Colombia, in which Argentina secured a 1-0 victory after extra time. During that match, the forward sustained a leg injury that has since sidelined him from Inter Miami's fixtures. Subsequent medical assessments revealed ligament damage in his right ankle.

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