Inter Miami Confirms Groin Strain as Messi Faces Uncertain Return Timeline; Argentina’s Campaign Hit by Key Absences
Lionel Messi will miss Argentina’s upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying matches after sustaining a groin injury during Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta United over the weekend, the club confirmed on Monday. The 37-year-old football icon, who has been instrumental in Argentina’s recent success, suffered a “low-grade injury in the adductor muscle,” according to a scan conducted after the match.
Inter Miami’s statement did not provide a specific timeline for Messi’s return, stating that his recovery will depend on his “clinical progress and response to treatment.” This setback comes just weeks after Messi returned to action following a three-game absence, scoring a crucial goal off the bench in a CONCACAF Champions Cup victory.
Messi’s absence is a significant blow to Argentina, who are set to face Uruguay on Friday, November 17, followed by a high-stakes clash against Brazil on November 21. These matches are pivotal for Argentina’s quest to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Currently, Argentina leads the 10-team South American qualifying group by five points, with Messi as the competition’s top scorer, netting six goals in 12 rounds.
However, Argentina’s challenges extend beyond Messi’s injury. The team will also be without Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate fullback Paulo Montiel, both sidelined due to injuries. Meanwhile, Brazil, their upcoming opponent, will miss the services of 33-year-old Neymar, who is recovering from a thigh injury and has delayed his return to the national team. Brazil currently sits fifth in the qualifying group, trailing Argentina by seven points.
As the football world awaits updates on Messi’s recovery, Argentina’s hopes of securing an early qualification for the 2026 World Cup now rest on their ability to navigate these critical matches without their talismanic captain.
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