According to Argentina reporter Gastón Edul, Messi was left out of La Albiceleste's squad due to a minor muscular injury. The Argentina captain featured and scored in Inter Miami 's 2–1 victory over Atlanta United in the MLS on Sunday night, but he felt discomfort and underwent further evaluations.

Argentina, the defending World Cup champion, can ensure qualification for next year's tournament in its two games in March.

An unexpected injury to Lionel Messi leaves Lionel Scaloni and Argentina scrambling to replace their best player ahead of matches against Uruguay and Brazil.