‘It’s hard to live without depending on Messi’

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni believes Lionel Messi could return to action within two weeks as he nears full recovery from an ankle injury.

Messi prepares to return to the field after injury in Copa America final

Messi limped off during Argentina’s Copa America final win over Colombia this summer and has been absent from the national team and Inter Miami since. The world football legend has injured his ankle, but could be back on the pitch soon, with Argentina head coach Scaloni admitting they are aiming for the striker to be back in two weeks.

Speaking ahead of Argentina’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Colombia on Tuesday, Scaloni said: “It’s difficult for a team not to depend on Messi in terms of football because he is a unique player. But this team has an idea of ​​​​playing football that goes beyond who plays. Everyone plays the same, and that helps the team. When Leo is not there, we do the same without that last touch that he has.”

“We hope Messi will start playing. When we have to make the next list, we will talk to everyone and he will not be an exception. This will happen in about two weeks. Then we will see if he is fit,” added coach Scaloni.

With his comments, Scaloni hopes to include Messi in his next squad for October’s internationals against Venezuela and Bolivia, also in the South American 2026 World Cup qualifiers. La Albiceleste will now look to maintain their position at the top of the World Cup qualifying standings when they face Colombia this week.

Regarding Messi, there is information that the 37-year-old player could return to the field after a long wait when Inter Miami faces Philadelphia Union in MLS on September 14. However, the possibility of La Pulga starting is still a big question mark as the team’s management wants to ensure that this player fully recovers from injury.

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