'I Really Wanted To Play But...': Lionel Messi Opens Up On His Withdrawal From Argentina Squad, Provides Latest Injury Update

FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Legendary footballer Lionel Messi opened up on his withdrawal from the Argentina national football team's squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier matches against their arch-rivals, Uruguay and Brazil. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said that he wanted to play for the Albiceleste but was forced to take some rest. Earlier, Lionel Scaloni's side confirmed that Messi will be missing the upcoming matches for Argentina due to “discomfort in his adductor region”.

Messi was last seen playing for his club Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS) against Atlanta United, the Argentine also scored a goal in the game which helped his side clinch a win on March 17.

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“I'm sad to miss these important games": Messi

The legendary footballer took to his official Instagram handle to break the silence on the matter and said that he is sad to miss the upcoming fixtures. Messi added that he needs to take rest because of a ‘small injury’. The Argentine also sent his best wishes to the national team.

“I'm sad to miss these important games against Uruguay and Brazil with the national team. I really wanted to play but a small injury means I need to rest for a bit, so I can't be there. I'll be supporting and cheering from here like any other fan. Let's go, Argentina!,” Messi wrote as quoted by Goal.com.

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Argentina To Face Uruguay And Brazil In FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers

In 2025, Messi has played five matches with Inter Miami, scoring four goals and two assists. Messi shocked the sports world in 2023, when he broke the news of his joining Major League Soccer side Inter Miami. After joining Herons in 2023, the Argentine scored 38 goals for his new club. Meanwhile, the Argentines will take on Uruguay on March 22 at 5:00 AM IST at the Estadio Centenario. The Albiceleste will lock horns against their arch-rivals, Brazil on March 26 at 5:30 AM IST.