Before the World Cup qualifiers, Lionel Messi has joined the Argentina team for training at the “Lionel Messi Training Center” in Buenos Aires.
The man after whom this ground is named — “Lionel Messi Training Center” — has finally graced it again with his magical presence after a long time. Messi has started training with the Argentina squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Flying in from Miami, Messi arrived at the training center just outside Buenos Aires on Monday. The World Cup-winning captain last played for Argentina back in November.
Due to a muscle injury, the legendary forward missed the World Cup qualifying matches in March. Even so, Argentina had already secured their place in the 2026 World Cup, having maintained their position at the top of the table.
Now, Messi joins the national side carrying his excellent form and rhythm from Inter Miami. While there was a slight dip in performance for a brief period, the 37-year-old has recently looked more like his vintage self.
In last Wednesday’s Major League Soccer match against Montreal, Messi netted two goals. On Sunday, in a 5-1 win over Columbus Crew, he not only scored twice but was also involved in the other three goals. He earned the ‘Player of the Week’ honor in back-to-back weeks.
Argentina will face Chile away on Friday morning (Bangladesh time), followed by a home game against Colombia on June 11. Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister will miss both matches due to injury.
Argentina currently sit at the top of the South American qualifiers with 31 points from 14 matches, including 10 wins and one draw. Ecuador are second with 23 points, followed by Uruguay, Brazil, and Paraguay — all tied with 21 points.
