Lionel Messi Will Skip Upcoming Argentina Qualifier, Focuses on Inter Miami’s MLS Push
MIAMI – Lionel Messi will not join Argentina for its upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Ecuador on September 9, opting instead to remain with Inter Miami and focus on the club’s pursuit of an MLS Cup title, sources confirmed Thursday. The decision comes amid a busy schedule for Messi and ongoing concerns about injuries that have plagued his time with the South Florida club.
The move raises questions about Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, tho no final decision has been made. While Messi remains committed to the Argentina national team, his priority is currently bolstering Inter Miami’s chances in the MLS Supporters’ shield race and ultimately securing an MLS Cup championship. He could perhaps feature in four Argentina friendly matches later this year, but those would need to be carefully scheduled around Inter Miami’s MLS commitments.
Messi’s tenure with Inter Miami has been marked by both success and setbacks. The team was eliminated in the first round of the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs by Atlanta United. In 2025, Inter Miami has fallen short in three trophy bids, losing in the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup, the Round of 16 in the FIFA Club World Cup, and the 2025 Leagues Cup final. Injuries,including frequent upper leg issues and a two-month absence following the 2024 Copa America final,have substantially impacted his availability.
Argentina is planning two friendly matches in the United States between October 6-14,with locations and opponents yet to be persistent. They also have scheduled friendlies between November 10-18 in Luanda, Angola, and Kerala, India. These matches present potential opportunities for Messi to rejoin the national team, but could also create scheduling conflicts with Inter Miami’s MLS season.