Where is Lionel Messi? Argentina’s icon is missing from the starting lineup for the Copa America Group A clash against Peru

Argentina’s star player, Lionel Messi, was absent from the starting lineup in the Copa América match against Peru.

Assistant coach Walter Samuel announced Messi’s absence before the match, causing appropriate anxiety among fans wondering how the reigning World and South American champions would cope without their talisman.

Of course, Argentina have already secured a place in the quarter-finals following victories against Canada and Chile in their opening matches. A draw in the match against Peru would ensure they finish at the top of their group, so if there is any match that Messi cannot participate in, it will probably be this one.

The team, as expected, also rested other key players in the game at Hard Rock Stadium, although Samuel emphasized his intention to seek victory. But what exactly is happening with Messi and when is he expected to return?

Where is Lionel Messi vs. Peru?

Lionel Messi will miss Argentina’s Copa America match against Peru due to muscle stiffness in his right adductor muscle.

Speaking to reporters before the match, Argentina assistant coach Walter Samuel said: “Leo had a problem in the last game and will not be there. [playing] in this. let’s see how [the injury] “It’s from day to day.”

As a result, Messi was not included in the starting XI against Peru, although, surprisingly, he was still named on the substitutes’ bench.

? #America Cup

? Once the start is confirmed! ⚽

This is how it will be formed @Argentina ?? for the pre-meeting #Peru ?? image.twitter.com/7AQNnINzfX

— ?? Argentina National Team ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) June 29, 2024

What is Lionel Messi’s injury?

Messi injured his adductor muscle, located on the inner thigh, during the second match against Chile, which Argentina won 1-0.

In the 25th minute, Messi was fouled by Chilean left back Gabriel Suazo near the touchline. Messi immediately sought medical attention and received attention for his right adductor muscle as the game continued. The team coach applied cream to Messi’s thigh, possibly to treat a muscle knot or similar problem.

Messi had to receive treatment after a tough challenge image.twitter.com/TUSYzNZPDp

— FOX Football (@FOXSoccer) June 26, 2024

Argentina played a man down for a minute or two until Messi returned to the field. There were concerns initially as the Inter Miami striker appeared to struggle and looked uncomfortable for around 10 minutes.

However, he almost scored in the 36th minute with a powerful left-footed shot that went just wide, suggesting he was in control of the situation.

Despite completing the full 90 minutes, it is evident that Messi was dealing with some discomfort or injury issues during the match. As such, he is resting.

Where is Lionel Scaloni for the Copa América clash?

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni will also miss the final Copa America group game against Peru due to a one-match suspension. CONMEBOL’s disciplinary committee suspended Scaloni because Argentina returned late for the second half in its games against Canada and Chile.

Scaloni’s suspension also means he will not be able to attend the post-match press conference. This decision follows similar sanctions imposed on Chilean coach Ricardo Gareca for the same reason. Chile will play Canada on Saturday in Orlando.

Despite the setback, Argentina have already secured a place in the last 16 of the tournament. Assistant coach Walter Samuel will replace Scaloni, who he said was upset by the situation.

Argentina only needs a draw against Peru to secure first place in Group A. The team hopes to maintain its good form despite the absence of its coach and star player.

Argentina’s schedule and results so far in the Copa América 2024

Below is the complete schedule of all Argentina’s Copa América 2024 matches.