New Delhi, September 5(HS): Argentina captain and star forward Lionel Messi will not feature in the team’s upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ecuador on September 10, as he continues to prioritize rest and recovery.

Following Argentina’s emphatic win over Venezuela, Messi revealed that discussions with head coach Lionel Scaloni led to the decision. “I spoke with Leo (Scaloni) and we agreed that I should rest. I’m recovering from an injury — I feel fine now, but we want to avoid travel and another game so I can be fully fresh for the matches ahead,” Messi said.

Messi also reflected on the emotional significance of playing in front of a packed home crowd at Estadio Monumental, where Argentina defeated Venezuela 3–0 on Thursday, with Messi himself scoring twice. “It has always been my dream to end like this — on this ground, where I’ve lived both joy and difficult moments. Playing in front of Argentine fans is always a happiness,” he added.

While Messi has not indicated when he plans to retire from top-level football, the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualifiers begin in 2027, when he will be 40. Fans continue to speculate whether the legendary forward will aim for one more World Cup appearance.

Messi currently holds the record as the all-time leading scorer in South American World Cup qualifying, with 36 goals. His Inter Miami teammate Luis Suárez trails with 29 goals but has retired from Uruguay’s national team. Bolivia’s Marcelo Moreno Martins sits third with 22 goals.

—————

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar