Lionel Messi Dropped From Argentina’s Squad For World Cup Qualifiers Due To Injury

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has been omitted from the 28-man squad announced by the Argentine FA for the upcoming South American World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia.

The 37-year-old Messi, who is currently recovering from an ankle injury sustained during last month’s Copa America final in the United States, will not participate in the matches. He is undergoing treatment at his club, Inter Miami.

The squad also misses River Plate goalkeeper Franco Armani and striker Angel Di Maria, who has retired from international football following the Copa America.

Coach Lionel Scaloni has included midfielder Ezequiel Fernandez and striker Valentin Castellanos for the first time.

The squad features several young players with limited international experience, including Alejandro Garnacho, Valentin Carboni, Valentin Barco, and Matias Soule.

Argentina will face Chile at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires on September 5 and then play against Colombia in Barranquilla on September 10.