The Albiceleste formalized the absence of number 10 following a hamstring injury in his right leg contracted during his last match with Inter Miami.
The Argentine captain was injured during his club's MLS match against Nashville. Messi, author of a goal and an assist, had to leave the game in the 49th minute. La Pulga will therefore miss the two friendly matches that Argentina has scheduled, against El Salvador and Costa Rica.
“He has an overload in his right hamstring,” Inter Miami coach Tata Marino said after the match, confirming the injury. “ We didn't have to take any risks. We tried to see if he could hold on a little longer, but it bothered him and we preferred that he leave the match.”
What is the impact on Argentina?
Fortunately for Lionel Scaloni and his world champion team, the 36-year-old will only miss the friendlies, which will not impact qualifying for the Copa América or World Cup.
The Copa América begins on June 20, with Argentina's first match scheduled against the winner of the A qualifiers. The first known team they will face will be Chile on Tuesday, June 26.
Messi and his teammates will try to defend the title they won in 2021 by triumphing over their great rival, Brazil, thanks to a goal from Angel Di Maria in the 22nd minute.
