Lionel Messi posts emotional Instagram story following a new injury concern

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi has provided an update regarding his absence from the latest Argentina squad, as the Inter-Miami superstar is currently managing a minor injury.

The World Champions management has announced that their captain will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches due to discomfort in the adductor region. Consequently, Messi will miss the upcoming encounters against arch-rivals Uruguay and Brazil.

His absence will be felt in Lionel Scaloni’s squad, particularly with crucial points at stake in the CONMEBOL qualification rounds. Every possible measure was taken at the club level to ensure that Messi would not be overextended during the initial phases of Inter Miami’s 2025 campaign.

Lionel Messi hasn't had the best start to a new season in Major League Soccer. He has made just two appearances for the club in which he has netted two goals. However, he picked a small niggle in the fixture against Atalanta United resulting in his absence from the squad.

Messi expressed his disappointment on Instagram 

Messi took to his Instagram to express his disappointment at being denied the chance to increase his tally of 191 international caps. He shared that he is saddened to miss the crucial matches against Uruguay and Brazil with the national team. Despite his eagerness to participate, a minor injury has forced him to stay out of the fixture.

“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!” Lionel Messi wrote.

Argentina sits at the top of the CONMEBOL standings with 25 points and looks set to qualify for the next FIFA World Cup in 2026.