Lionel Messi trains with Argentinian team ahead of World Cup qualifier

Argentina's Lionel Messi, centre, in training, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 3 June 2025   -  
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Football superstar, Lionel Messi, was back on the field training with the Argentinian national team on Monday.

His return after a 7-month involuntary absence due to an injury, will see him play in their upcoming World Cup qualifying matches.

Argentina is set to face Chile away on Thursday --- before hosting Colombia at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires on 11 June.

Messi’s team is currently  at the top of the South American standing with 31 points.

The 37-year-old returns to the national team in great form.

He has just been named the North American soccer league, the MSL’s player of the week for the second time in a row.

Messi contributed two goals and three assists in Inter Miami’s 5-1 win over Columbus Crew last Saturday.

Due to suspensions and injuries, Argentina will field a revamped midfield against Chile  - with three players making their debuts for their country.

This includes 17-year-old forward Franco Mastantuono from River Plate, who has already garnered significant interest from prominent European clubs.

Meanwhile, striker Lautaro Martínez joins the squad on Wednesday, following Inter Milan’s 5-0 defeat to PSG in the Champions League final.

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