Lionel Messi’s long-awaited return to the Argentina national team had fans excited to see him shine in the 2026 CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers. However, in a surprising twist, reports have emerged explaining why the captain was left out of the starting lineup against Chile.
After suffering an injury in March against Atlanta United, Messi missed key international fixtures against Uruguay and Brazil—two matches that resulted in crucial victories for Argentina on their path to World Cup qualification. With Messi now back in the squad, many were caught off guard by his absence from the starting XI.
According to Argentine journalist and insider Gaston Edul, Messi won’t start Thursday’s match against Chile due to a decision made by head coach Lionel Scaloni. The coach reportedly spoke with Messi ahead of the match, and both agreed that the 36-year-old would begin the game on the bench.
With another qualifier against Colombia scheduled for Tuesday, many are wondering if Messi is simply being rested. Edul reports that the Inter Miami star is fully expected to play in the second half at Julio Martínez Prádanos Stadium. Chilean fans, who welcomed Messi at the airport, are likely to see him in what could be his final match on Chilean soil.
Argentina and the push for youth
Messi’s place on the bench sparked speculation about a possible injury, but Edul made clear that the decision had nothing to do with his fitness. Actually, if it were for Messi, he’d have preferred to go from the start and play every single minute.
see also
Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid reportedly beat PSG to land 17-year-old Argentina wonderkid in $57M deal
Instead, Scaloni views this match as an ideal chance to give meaningful minutes to younger players. Chile, sitting at the bottom of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying table with just 10 points from 14 games, presents a lower-risk opportunity to rotate the squad.
With Argentina already qualified, Scaloni is opting to test emerging talent in competitive action. Among the different surprises the one expected to fill Messi’s role alongside Julian Alvarez is Como’s rising star Nicolas Paz, who will lead the attack in Messi’s absence.
