Messi Out of Argentina's World Cup Qualifiers Against Uruguay, Brazil

Lionel Messi will miss Argentina's crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Uruguay and Brazil due to a muscle strain sustained during Inter Miami's recent victory over Atlanta United in MLS. Coach Lionel Scaloni announced the final 25-man squad on Monday, which notably did not include the star forward. Messi's absence is compounded by the exclusion of other key players like Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Montiel, posing a significant challenge for Argentina, who currently lead the CONMEBOL qualifying standings with 25 points. Argentina is set to face Uruguay away on Friday and host Brazil shortly after, with Brazil also missing forward Neymar due to injury. This situation emphasizes the depth and resilience required from the Argentine squad to secure World Cup qualification. Messi's injury halts a strong MLS season where he has scored four goals in five appearances.