FIFA
Why isn’t Lionel Messi playing for Argentina in the South American Qualifiers? Who will replace him?
The Albiceleste will face the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Colombia and Chile without their legendary captain.
Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina squad is currently in camp preparing for their two upcoming South American World Cup Qualifiers, corresponding to matchdays 7 and 8. First, they will face Chile on September 5 at the Monumental Stadium. Then, they will wrap up the international break with an away match against Colombia on September 10.
Argentina currently leads the qualification table with 15 points, but for the time being will be without their captain, Lionel Messi, who was not included in the squad list.
Why isn’t Messi in the Argentina roster?
The Albiceleste’s number 10 is recovering from a ligament injury in his ankle. Messi had to leave the field during the 2024 Copa América final against Colombia due to this issue. The images that followed were heartbreaking for the football world. The Argentine star broke down on the bench, unable to play, likely in what could have been his last final with the national team.
However, the outcome of that game was positive enough. He got to lift the Copa América trophy for the second time with his country. After enduring many disappointments while wearing Argentina’s shirt, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is now achieving what he once dreamed of. He has won every possible title and enjoys playing with a group of players who admire him. Moreover, he has finally earned the full support of his fans, after years of facing criticism.
Who will play instead of Messi for Argentina?
The main uncertainty lies in how to fill the vacancy left by the Inter Miami star. Despite the presence of young talents like Simeone, Soulé, Garnacho and Carboni, all indications point to Scaloni considering two main options.
The first would be pairing his two strikers, Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez, something that has rarely happened. The second option could see the coach opt for a lone “9″ and use two wingers, which could be Dybala and Nico González, especially with Ángel di María also absent.
Another name coming into the picture is Gio Lo Celso. However, his limited playing time at the start of the season diminishes his chances of starting in the lineup. His departure from Tottenham and arrival at Betis brings hope of reintegrating the talented playmaker into the national team setup.
Since the injury that kept him out of the 2022 World Cup, he has struggled to find consistency and regain his form, but this international break represents a good opportunity for him to re-establish himself.