Lionel Messi is back!
After seven months away from international football, the Argentina captain rejoined his teammates on Monday for training just outside Buenos Aires. The build-up begins now for two World Cup qualifying matches that could shape the rest of the campaign.
Argentina face Chile on Thursday in Santiago before hosting Colombia next week at the Estadio Monumental. With 31 points, the reigning champions top the Conmebol standings—but they’ll be missing several key players.
Messi’s return couldn’t come at a better time.
The 37-year-old forward last played for the national team in November 2024. He missed the March fixtures due to a muscle injury. Despite his absence, Argentina sealed qualification for the 2026 World Cup, set to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Speaking at the training facility—now named after him—Messi looked calm and focused. He’s coming off a hot streak with Inter Miami, where he was just named MLS Player of the Week for the second time running.
His latest performance? Two goals and three assists in a 5–1 win over Columbus Crew.
Fresh Faces, Familiar Pressure
Joining Messi in the squad are three uncapped players. Defenders Kevin Lomónaco from Independiente and Mariano Troilo from Belgrano, along with 17-year-old River Plate forward Franco Mastantuono, are all set for their Argentina debuts.
Mastantuono has already drawn attention from top clubs across Europe. Whether he’ll play remains to be seen.
Coach Lionel Scaloni has more than just new players to think about. Injuries and suspensions are forcing him to reshuffle his line-up.
Defender Nicolás Otamendi is out due to suspension. That leaves Leonardo Balerdi of Marseille and Facundo Medina from Lens as likely options to partner Cristian Romero at the back.
The midfield will also need patching. Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool) is out injured, while Enzo Fernández (Chelsea) and Leandro Paredes (Roma) are both suspended for yellow card accumulation.
Striker Lautaro Martínez, who played in Inter Milan’s 5–0 Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday, is expected to join the squad midweek. He’s unlikely to be fit in time for Thursday’s clash.
Scaloni Keeping Calm
Scaloni has taken the shake-up in stride. “This is what happens in football,” he said in a press briefing. “You have to be ready for changes and give opportunities to those who are hungry and prepared.”
He also praised Messi’s return: “He’s our leader, on and off the pitch. Having him back always lifts the team.”
Argentina fans will be hoping their icon delivers once again.
The road to another World Cup is already under way—but with Messi back, expectations are higher than ever.
