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Lionel Messi will miss Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil over the next eight days due to an adductor injury. The 37-year-old star was not included in the 25-man squad announced on Monday by Argentina's head coach, Lionel Scaloni.
Messi's Adductor Injury
Later on Monday, Inter Miami confirmed that Messi, the reigning MLS MVP, underwent an MRI to assess the extent of the discomfort in his adductor region. The injury occurred during Inter Miami's 2-1 win over Atlanta United on Sunday.
Inter Miami reported that the MRI findings confirmed a low-grade injury in the adductor muscle. They further stated that Messi's clinical progress and response to treatment will determine his availability for future matches.
Messi Misses Argentina's Crucial Qualifying Matches
Argentina, currently leading the South American World Cup qualification standings, will visit second-placed Uruguay on Friday, followed by a home match against Brazil at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.
Key Absentees for Argentina
Messi isn't the only notable absentee for these critical World Cup qualifiers. Paulo Dybala, Gonzalo Montiel, and Giovani Lo Celso have also been ruled out. Additionally, Scaloni dropped Alejandro Garnacho and Claudio Echeverri from the squad announced on March 2.
Messi's Injury History with Inter Miami
Messi, who led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, has dealt with several injuries this season while playing for Inter Miami. Earlier this month, he missed three games but made his return on Thursday for the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup tie against Cavalier SC.
Messi Scores Before Injury in Inter Miami's Win Over Atlanta
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano had declared Messi fit to start against Atlanta United on Sunday. Messi scored in the 20th minute before being sidelined with the injury that has now ruled him out of Argentina's World Cup qualifiers.