Messi’s injury and impending retirement highlight the need for Argentina to prepare for a future without their star player. While he’s expected to be part of the 2026 World Cup, his participation isn’t guaranteed. Scaloni must cultivate a team capable of success with and without Messi’s presence.
Lionel Messi has been ruled out of Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Uruguay and Brazil due to a muscle injury. Despite scoring a stunning goal in Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta United on Sunday, Messi experienced muscle discomfort, prompting concerns about a potential tear.
To prevent further injury, Messi will remain in the United States for treatment and recovery, meaning he will not be available to join Lionel Scaloni’s squad. This is a significant blow to Argentina, given the importance of these matches in their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Argentina currently leads the World Cup qualifying standings with 25 points, five points ahead of second place and seven points ahead of Brazil. While Argentina is in a commanding position, Messi’s absence is still a setback, particularly against such strong rivals. The absence of Messi will require Scaloni to adapt his tactical approach.
Messi sustained the adductor injury while taking a powerful left-footed shot during Sunday’s match. He immediately showed signs of discomfort and, while he continued to play, was subsequently ruled out after undergoing further medical evaluation on Monday. The evaluation confirmed a muscle injury and has been a cause for concern for fans and the Argentina coaching staff alike.
Tactical adjustments and potential replacements
Nicolás González is the likely replacement for Messi in the starting eleven. However, González’s role would differ significantly from Messi’s, given his usual position on the left wing and added defensive responsibilities.
De Paul and Mac Allister will need to compensate for Messi’s playmaking abilities, while Lautaro Martínez may adopt a more withdrawn role to facilitate the team’s play. The tactical changes required to compensate for Messi’s absence are significant and could influence the outcome of these critical matches.
This also presents an opportunity for Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez to show that they can play together in Argentina’s attack. Scaloni has used this approach before on occasions when Messi was unavailable for other reasons.
Messi’s absence provides an opportunity for other players to demonstrate their abilities and stake their claim for a place in the team. While his leadership and talent will certainly be missed, the absence of Messi highlights the need for Argentina to develop a strong team capable of success even in his absence.
At 37, Messi’s career is nearing its end, raising questions about Argentina’s future beyond his playing years. While he’s likely to be part of the 2026 World Cup squad, his participation will depend on his physical condition. Regardless, the Argentina coaching staff must begin planning for a post-Messi era and build a team capable of success without the captain’s presence. His reduced playing time in the future will require the team to adjust and build upon its current strengths while developing new strategies.
