Messi Returns to Argentina for World Cup Qualifiers

Rayane Messi, a promising 17-year-old French talent, has been included in RC Strasbourg's squad for their Ligue 1 match against RC Lens, marking his first inclusion since signing from Dijon for €1.2m. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi returns to Argentina's national team for World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia after recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the Copa América final. Despite his absence, Argentina maintained their top position in the CONMEBOL qualifier table with 18 points. The inclusion of Lionel Messi, who recently returned to form with Inter Miami, scoring three goals in four appearances, is seen as a significant boost to the team. Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni announced the squad, which includes notable players like Rodrigo De Paul and Lautaro Martinez but misses goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez due to a suspension. The qualifiers will be played on October 10 and October 15, with Argentina aiming to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup.