Lionel Messi offered a moment of magic at Inter Miami fans on the night of Sunday to Monday. Faced with Atlanta (2-1 victory), the Argentinian scored his first goal of the season in MLS: a daring recovery, a dribbling eliminating a defender, concluded by a specific lob. A masterpiece greeted by his coach Javier Mascherano: “He is the best player in history, there is nothing to add. »»
But joy turned to concern at the end of the match. Affected in the left thigh, Messi had to leave the ground prematurely. The examinations confirmed an injury forcing him to declare forfeit for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay (March 23) and Brazil (March 26).
Messi's private Argentina
For Lionel Scaloni, it's a headache. The coach, already deprived of Paulo Dybala and Angel Di Maria, will have to deal without his captain. Despite a talented workforce (Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández), the absence of Messi deprives the team of its technical and moral leader, especially against Brazil, historic opponent.
On the Brazilian side, Neymar is also absent (injury), replaced by Endrick, the 17 -year -old nugget of Real Madrid. A South American clásico devoid of its two icons, but still explosive.
Reinforcements from Ligue 1
Despite the absence of Messi, Argentina can count on several players playing in Ligue 1.. Guardian Gerónimo Rulli (AJ Auxerre), defender Leonardo Balerdi (OM), the circles Nicolás Tagliafico (OL) and Thiago Almada (OL), as well as defender Facundo Medina (RC Lens) were summoned. These elements, accustomed to the European championships, will bring their experience to compensate for the lack of leadership.
Inter Miami in mind, but worried
If Inter Miami dominates the East Conference (10 points in 4 days), the club must now manage the absence of Messi, essential to its success. At 37, each injury questions his ability to chain matches.
For Argentina, the stake is twofold: proving that it can shine without its idol … and pray that its return is fast. Because without Messi, even with stars, the team loses a little of its soul.
