The 38-year-old was called up by Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni for the matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico. However, Messi was not named in the squad that won 1-0 against Venezuela last week at hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Scaloni revealed that he has decided to remove the striker from the list.
In a rare case, Messi was allowed to play in Inter Miami's penultimate match in MLS this season. El Pulga's team is trying to get a higher position in the Eastern Conference to ensure home advantage in the play-off stage.
Earlier this week, Miami head coach Rafael Mascherano said he would welcome Messi back to play for Argentina. However, the tactician admitted that he was uncertain whether that would be feasible.
Messi scored Miami's first goal in a 4-0 win over Atalanta, in their final match at the Chase Stadium. This team will move to a new home stadium, Miami freedom Park, in 2026.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will return to play for Argentina at the Chase Stadium against Puerto Rico on October 14.
"This match will play a part in the preparation for upcoming commitments and allow the technical team to fine-tune the details. Messi's return creates great expectations and promises to bring a spectacular atmosphere to the upcoming international challenge" - Argentina said in a statement.
