Argentina will be without their talismanic captain, Lionel Messi, for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Brazil and Uruguay. The 37-year-old was initially named in the provisional 33-man squad announced on March 2.
However, he has now been excluded from the final selection. This decision follows concerns over his fitness, as he recently missed three matches for Inter Miami due to load management.
Messi’s Omission Sparks Questions
The decision to leave Messi out of the squad raises questions about his current physical state. Despite sitting out three matches for Inter Miami, the legendary forward returned to action against Jamaican club Cavalier FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup round-of-16 tie. He then played the full 90 minutes in Inter Miami’s 3-1 loss to Atlanta United on Sunday, leading many to believe he would be fit to represent Argentina.
However, Argentina’s coaching staff opted for a cautious approach, choosing to rest their captain for the crucial qualifiers. The decision ensures that Messi avoids unnecessary risk ahead of a long and demanding season.
Mascherano Clarifies Messi’s Situation
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano provided insight into Messi’s absence, explaining that the club carefully managed his workload to prevent potential injuries.
“We tried to take away from the overload Messi had, so that it wouldn’t go further than that. We tried to handle it in the best way. Luckily, we were able to control it and that it didn’t turn into an injury or much more. Today he’s better, and we decided to start giving him minutes. There’s no secret in this,” Mascherano said.
Mascherano emphasized that Messi was not suffering from a specific injury but was rested as a precaution. The coaching staff prioritized his long-term fitness over immediate game time, ensuring he remains available for future matches.
Argentina’s Medical Staff in Constant Contact with Inter Miami
Throughout Messi’s absence from Inter Miami’s matches, the club’s medical team maintained open communication with Argentina’s national team doctors. This collaborative approach allowed both sides to monitor his progress and make informed decisions regarding his availability for the qualifiers.
“Obviously, the Argentinian national team doctors are in contact with the doctors here, and they are the ones who specifically talk about that. I haven’t spoken with the coaching staff, but if they have any consultation, I will talk to them. I don’t think it will be necessary because the doctors are in contact all the time,” Mascherano revealed.
When Will Messi Return to Action?
With Argentina choosing to rest their captain for the qualifiers, Messi is expected to remain in Miami and continue training with his club. He is likely to return to action when Inter Miami faces the Philadelphia Union in a Major League Soccer clash on March 29.
Meanwhile, La Albiceleste will have to navigate two challenging fixtures without their leader. Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina remains in a strong position, currently sitting atop the CONMEBOL World Cup qualification standings with 25 points from 12 games.
Argentina’s squad depth will be put to the test in these crucial encounters. With Messi sidelined, head coach Lionel Scaloni must rely on other attacking talents to step up. While Argentina boasts a wealth of quality players, the absence of their inspirational captain could prove significant, particularly against fierce rivals Brazil and a resurgent Uruguay side.
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