Lionel Messi, the star player of the Argentina national team, will be sidelined for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers due to a right ankle injury. This announcement was made by Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni as he revealed the 28-man squad for the matches against Chile and Colombia.
Despite his recent retirement from international football after winning the Copa America, 36-year-old Ángel Di María is not included in the squad. Argentina, the current World Cup champions, are sitting comfortably at the top of the South American qualifying table with 15 points from six matches.
The squad features a mix of experienced players and promising talents across all positions. In the goalkeeping department, Walter Benítez, Gerónimo Rulli, Juan Musso, and Emiliano Martínez have been called up. The defensive line includes names like Gonzalo Montiel, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Germán Pezzella, and Nicolás Otamendi, among others.
Midfielders Leandro Paredes, Guido Rodríguez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Rodrigo de Paul will be crucial in the absence of Messi. The forward line will be led by Lautaro Martínez, with support from Alejandro Garnacho, Matías Soulé, and others.
Argentina's strength lies in its depth and versatility, with players representing clubs from top leagues around the world. The team will look to maintain its impressive form and secure victories in the upcoming qualifiers to solidify its position at the top of the standings.
For more soccer news and updates, visit the AP soccer hub at apnews.com/hub/soccer.
