Argentina dealt huge Lionel Messi blow as Inter Miami superstar is left out of World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia due to ankle injury

Argentina have announced their squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia and Messi has been omitted. The Inter Miami star damaged his ankle during the 2024 Copa America final and has not kicked a ball since; his recovery is being prioritised, as a result, by both club and country.

Argentina do have an abundance of attacking options; Alejandro Garnacho, Giuliano Simeone, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez and Valentin Castellanos will have to shoulder the burden of finding the back of the net for the world champions. Messi will instead focus on getting back to full fitness.

Messi has already misssed the MLS All-Star game as well as Inter Miami's Leagues Cup defence. The Herons return to domestic action on August 24, against FC Cincinnati, but Messi has not yet returned to the training pitch.

Argentina play Chile on September 6 before taking on Colombia on September 10 as they aim to qualify for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Messi's side, of course, are aiming to secure back-to-back trophies.