More problems for Argentina! Key attacker follows Lionel Messi in withdrawing from squad for Brazil World Cup qualifying showdown

The Inter striker has been ruled out due to a muscle issue in his left hamstring, leaving Argentina without two of their most important attacking players. His absence was confirmed after he trained separately from the rest of the squad at the Ezeiza training facility before it was ultimately decided that returning to Italy for rehabilitation was the best course of action.

This latest blow adds to Argentina’s growing injury concerns, as Messi was already ruled out due to adductor discomfort, preventing him from featuring in the upcoming clashes against their South American rivals. Without Messi and Martínez, Argentina's attacking setup will undergo significant changes as Lionel Scaloni is likely to place his trust in Julian Alvarez, who has been in top form for Atletico Madrid.

The Argentina FA put out a tweet on X which read: "#SelecciónMayor Forward Lautaro Martínez will be out of the squad for this March double date due to a muscle injury in his lower left hamstring."

Despite these setbacks, Argentina remain in a strong position in the South American World Cup qualifying standings. They currently hold a five-point lead at the top of the table, putting them in an excellent spot to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

During this international break, their first challenge will be against Uruguay on March 21 at the Centenario Stadium in Montevideo. Following that, Argentina will return to Buenos Aires on March 25, where they will take on Brazil at the Monumental Stadium in a fixture that always promises to be intense given the historic rivalry between the two nations.