Lionel Messi gutted to miss FIFA World Cup qualifiers: Details
What's the story
Lionel Messi has been ruled out of Argentina's upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil with a "low-grade" adductor injury. His club, Inter Miami, confirmed the news.
The 37-year-old felt the pain during Inter Miami's recent 2-1 victory over Atlanta United. He scored the opening goal in that match.
This season has been tough for Messi with fitness issues, missing three games this month before returning for one match on Thursday.
Player statement
Messi expresses disappointment over missing crucial matches
Messi took to Instagram to express his disappointment at missing the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
He wrote, "It's sad to miss these two very special matches with the National Team against Uruguay and Brazil."
He added that a not-so-serious injury forced him to rest before returning to play.
Despite his absence, Messi pledged his support for Argentina as a fan saying, "From here, I will be cheering and supporting as just another fan. Vamos Argentina!"
Team update
Argentina's World Cup qualification prospects amid player absences
Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, top the 10-team South American qualifying group (FIFA World Cup) by five points ahead of their match against Uruguay in Montevideo.
Apart from Messi, they will also miss striker Paulo Dybala and full-back Gonzalo Montiel.
Coach Lionel Scaloni has also left out Alejandro Garnacho and Claudio Echeverri from the roster announced on March 2.