Lionel Messi Returns to Argentina Squad After Seven-Month Break

Following a seven-month break from international football, Lionel Messi has returned to the Argentina squad. The 37-year-old skipper was spotted at the training complex for his first practice with the national team. He's poised to lead the squad in the upcoming Conmebol World Cup qualifying games against Chile and Colombia. Messi last played for the reigning World Cup champions in November 2024, but a muscle injury forced him to the sidelines. During his absence, the team successfully secured their World Cup qualification under the guidance of coach Lionel Scaloni. Messi's return comes on the back of his stellar performance for Inter Miami CF, where he was recently named the MLS Player of the Week for the second consecutive time. Argentina, currently topping the Conmebol standings with 31 points, is scheduled to play Chile on Thursday, followed by a home game against Colombia at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The squad also sees the debut of defenders Kevin Lomónaco and Mariano Troilo, and 17-year-old forward Franco Mastantuono from River Plate. However, Coach Scaloni faces selection challenges due to injuries and suspensions of key players. Striker Lautaro Martínez, coming off a Champions League final defeat with Inter Milan, is unlikely to be available for Thursday's match.