Forward Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s 28-player provisional squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Chile and Colombia in June. This marks his return after missing the March fixtures against Uruguay and Brazil due to a groin injury.
Argentina, the defending World Cup champions, have already secured their place in the 2026 World Cup, achieving key victories in March—including a 1-0 win over Uruguay and a commanding 4-1 triumph against Brazil—even without Messi on the field.
Following his injury withdrawal, Messi expressed his disappointment on Instagram:
“It’s a shame to miss these two very special matches with the national team against Uruguay and Brazil,” he wrote. “As always, I wanted to be there, but at the last moment, a not-so-serious injury that forces me to rest for a while before returning to play kept me out.”
Since recovering, Messi has returned to action with Inter Miami, scoring six goals across all competitions. The 37-year-old is also expected to participate in the upcoming Club World Cup, with Miami beginning their campaign on June 14—just four days after Argentina faces Colombia.
Coach Lionel Scaloni’s squad also features some notable names making a return, including Nottingham Forest midfielder Nicolas Dominguez, who last represented Argentina in 2021. Additionally, defender Valentin Barco and forward Valentin Castellanos, both absent since last year, have been recalled.
Argentina’s Preliminary Squad
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Geronimo Rulli, Walter Benitez
Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Juan Foyth, Cristian Romero, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolas Otamendi, Facundo Medina, Nicolas Tagliafico, Valentin Barco
Midfielders: Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Nicolas Dominguez, Exequiel Palacios, Rodrigo de Paul, Thiago Almada, Giovani Lo Celso, Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Paz
Forwards: Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez, Valentin Castellanos, Alejandro Garnacho, Nicolas Gonzalez, Giuliano Simeone, Angel Correa
