Lionel Messi is out of Argentina’s upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia after sustaining ankle injury.
He has yet to play for Inter Miami since their victory over Colombia in the Copa America final. Coach Lionel Scaloni has recalled Roma forward Dybala, but he has not made an international appearance since March 2023.
Argentina is at the top of South America, qualifying for the 2026 tournament hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The top six teams out of 10 will be eligible for the finals.
Argentina’s Squad
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Geronimo Rulli, Walter Benitez, Juan Musso
Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Nahuel Molina, Nicolas Otamendi, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Valentin Barco, Leonardo Balerdi, Cristian Romero, German Pezzella
Midfielders: Guido Rodriguez, Rodrigo De Paul, Ezequiel Fernandez, Enzo Fernandez, Giovani Lo Celso, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister
Forwards: Alejandro Garnacho, Nicolas Gonzalez, , Giuliano Simeone, Valentin Castellanos, Matias Soule, Paulo Dybala, Lautaro Martinez, Valentin Carboni, Julian Alvarez
