Messi Sidelined: Argentina's Squad for World Cup Qualifiers Announced

Lionel Messi will miss Argentina's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia due to a right ankle injury. Coach Lionel Scaloni has named a 28-man squad for the matches. Ángel Di María is also absent following his retirement after Copa America's win. Argentina leads the qualifiers with 15 points.

Lionel Messi will be absent from Argentina's forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia due to a persisting right ankle injury.

On Monday, Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni revealed his 28-man squad for the crucial matches to be held on September 5 and 10.

The 36-year-old Ángel Di María, who retired following Argentina's recent Copa America triumph, has also been omitted from the squad.

Argentina currently tops the South American qualifying group, having accumulated 15 points from six matches.

The selected squad includes top-tier goalkeepers such as Walter Benítez, Gerónimo Rulli, and Emiliano Martínez, alongside distinguished defenders like Nicolás Otamendi and Lisandro Martínez. The midfield will be led by the likes of Leandro Paredes and Rodrigo de Paul, while forwards such as Lautaro Martínez and Alejandro Garnacho are set to spearhead the attack.

(With inputs from agencies.)