Lionel Messi has confirmed he will skip Argentina’s final World Cup qualifier against Ecuador to focus on his recovery and help Inter Miami push for an MLS playoff spot. Despite a stellar performance in Argentina’s win over Venezuela, Messi will stay in Florida to rest and prepare for the crucial MLS stretch.
Lionel Messi has opted to skip Argentina’s final World Cup qualifier against Ecuador on September 12, 2025, in favor of focusing on his recovery and Inter Miami’s MLS playoff push. This marks a significant decision for the 38-year-old forward, who is prioritizing his club commitments as the season reaches its final stretch.
Following Argentina’s comfortable 3-0 win over Venezuela, in which Messi scored twice, the star forward revealed that he would remain in Florida to rest, having discussed the situation with Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni. Messi explained, “I spoke with Leo [Scaloni], and he decided I should rest. I’m coming off an injury, and even though I feel good now, we prefer to avoid the trip and another match so I can get ready for what’s coming, which is very important.”
Messi’s decision is a reflection of the demands of both international and club football, especially after the recent injury that sidelined him during the Leagues Cup. He admitted that his fitness was still not at its best after recovering from the injury that kept him out for 15 days. “That injury left me out for 15 days and broke my rhythm,” Messi said. “I haven’t felt fully comfortable since… Now we have a busy run ahead, and I hope to finish the year strong and then start preseason well.”
The Bigger Picture
While Argentina is already assured of their World Cup qualification, Messi’s absence will be felt in the Ecuador match, as the team looks to close out their CONMEBOL qualifiers on a strong note. However, Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni supported the decision, acknowledging Messi’s exhaustion after a grueling match. “He won’t travel to Ecuador. He finished exhausted. Honestly, he should have come off, but the emotion of the match and our plan for him to play the full game kept him on. He ended up very fatigued, and he deserves to spend this time with his family.”
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
Messi will now turn his focus entirely to Inter Miami’s push for the MLS playoffs. The team’s next match is on September 13, when they face Charlotte FC away, and Messi’s presence will be crucial as they fight for a strong finish to the season.
With a packed schedule ahead, the decision to rest and recover now could prove to be key for Messi’s ability to perform at his best when it matters most for both Inter Miami and the upcoming MLS postseason.
