Injured Messi absent from Argentina squad for qualifiers

Messi has not played for club side Inter Miami since suffering an ankle injury in Argentina's 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final. Roma forward Dybala has not made an international appearance since March 2023 but could get an opportunity to add to his 38 caps in Messi's absence. The reigning world champions will also be without Angel Di Maria after the veteran winger's international retirement. Argentina are currently top of South American qualifying for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.