Lionel Messi has unexpectedly been left off Argentina’s team for their forthcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Brazil and Uruguay.

Fans and observers are wondering if the decision is the result of physical issues, a calculated move by Argentina’s coaching staff, or just an opportunity to rest their best player.

Why Is Messi Missing?

Messi may have been left off the team for a number of reasons. The 36-year-old Inter Miami star has had a busy schedule, juggling international obligations with his club’s MLS commitments.

Messi has been a vital member of the team since delivering Argentina to World Cup success in 2022, but it has become more crucial than ever to manage his workload.

Lionel Scaloni, the head coach of Argentina, is reportedly testing younger players in high-stakes matches with these qualifiers.

Argentina is already leading in the qualifier standings, so this might be a chance to add depth to the team without taking too many chances.

Impact on Argentina’s Squad

Argentina still has a lot of quality, but Messi’s absence clearly creates a major hole in their attacking play. Against two of South America’s most formidable opponents, players like Ángel Di María, Lautaro Martínez, and Julián Álvarez are expected to stand up and lead the attack.

Argentina’s flexibility will be put to the test when they play Uruguay and Brazil without their captain. Brazil continues to be a dominant force in South American football despite some setbacks, while Uruguay has appeared to be a revitalized team under Marcelo Bielsa.

Argentina’s Strategy Moving Forward

In Messi’s absence, Scaloni might try out new lineups and strategies, depending on younger players like Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández to dominate the midfield.

Additionally, it’s an opportunity for Rodrigo De Paul to assume a more significant leadership position and direct play without Messi.

Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez will have to maintain Argentina’s defensive stability, particularly when facing a Brazilian attack spearheaded by Vinícius Jr.

What’s Next for Messi?

Despite missing these qualifiers, Messi is anticipated to play for Argentina again in the future, particularly with the Copa América 2024 approaching. His contribution to the national team is still crucial, but as he ages, his playing time will probably be carefully controlled.

For the time being, supporters of Argentina will need to adjust to watching their side play without their iconic number ten.

The key concern is whether Messi’s absence would reveal flaws that need to be fixed before important competitions, or if the team can still perform well without their best player ever.