Lionel Messi Excluded from Argentina Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

Argentina's captain Lionel Messi has been left out of the squad for the upcoming South American World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia due to an ankle injury. Coach Lionel Scaloni has named several young and uncapped players for the matches scheduled in September.

Injured Argentina captain Lionel Messi has been omitted from the squad for next month's South American World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia, as announced by the Argentine FA on Monday. The 37-year-old sustained an ankle injury during last month's Copa America final in the United States.

Currently recovering at Inter Miami, Messi's absence marks a significant void in Argentina's lineup. River Plate goalkeeper Franco Armani and striker Angel Di Maria, who recently retired from international duty, were also excluded from the squad.

Coach Lionel Scaloni has opted to bring in fresh talent, naming midfielder Ezequiel Fernandez and striker Valentin Castellanos for the first time. Youngsters like Alejandro Garnacho, Valentin Carboni, Valentin Barco, and Matias Soule also made the cut. Argentina will play against Chile at Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on Sept. 5 and face Colombia in Barranquilla five days later.

(With inputs from agencies.)