Argentina’s football squad is gearing up to face Uruguay and Brazil in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, but they’ll be missing their iconic captain, Lionel Messi.

The superstar’s fitness woes have struck again, keeping him out of the lineup for these crucial matches.

Messi’s latest setback came after Inter Miami’s clash with Atlanta United on Sunday. He played the full 90 minutes and even scored, but reports from Argentina say he felt muscle discomfort afterward.

That’s enough to rule him out for the qualifiers, adding to a season already peppered with absences.

This year alone, Messi sat out three Inter Miami games in early March due to a pulled muscle.

He only returned last Thursday, coming off the bench to score in a CONCACAF Champions Cup win. Now, this fresh injury has Argentina playing it safe.

Why Argentina’s Rolling Without Messi

Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina’s not sweating it too much. They’re topping the South American qualifying group with 25 points from 12 games five ahead of second-placed Uruguay.

The top six from CONMEBOL punch their ticket straight to the 2026 World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada, and the 2022 champs could lock it up in these next two.

They’ll take on Uruguay in Montevideo this Friday, then host Brazil in Buenos Aires on March 25.

Messi’s six goals make him the qualifying round’s leading scorer, so his boots will be missed but Argentina’s depth has them covered.

Elsewhere, Argentina’s also without injured Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate’s Paulo Montiel. Brazil, sitting fifth with 18 points, won’t have Neymar either—he’s nursing a thigh injury.

The squad still looks stacked, though Emiliano Martinez in goal, Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi anchoring the back, and firepower up top with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez. Messi might be out, but Argentina’s still gunning for that World Cup spot.

Crystal Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman is leaving the club after seven years in the role and is expected to take up a position in Saudi Arabia.

The 50-year-old, who previously played for and managed the Eagles, has been instrumental in shaping the club’s recruitment strategy and building a sustainable scouting structure.

Freedman’s Legacy at Crystal Palace

During his tenure, Freedman played a key role in identifying and signing talented players such as Marc Guehi, Adam Wharton, Michael Olise, and Eberechi Eze.

His work has helped establish a strong foundation for the club’s future success. While his next destination hasn’t been officially confirmed, reports suggest he has been offered a role with the Diriyah Company, which owns Saudi second-tier side Al-Diriyah.

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish praised Freedman’s contributions, stating, “Dougie has been instrumental in everything we have done over the past eight years and indeed had a huge impact before that as manager and, of course, as a player. I have enjoyed working with him immensely and wish him every success for the future.”

Freedman’s Farewell Message

In a heartfelt statement, Freedman expressed his gratitude to the club and its supporters. “I would like to extend my thanks to Steve Parish, the other owners, and to all the staff, managers, and players who have been at the club during my time here. It’s been an honour to represent the club, and I am incredibly proud of the work that’s been done in growing the football club into its current position.”

He also highlighted the promising future of the squad, saying, “To be leaving the club with a squad full of exciting talent led by an excellent manager, I truly believe the foundations are in place to be built upon.” Freedman thanked the fans for their unwavering support, adding, “Crystal Palace is and will always remain in my heart.”

Freedman is expected to stay with Crystal Palace on a short-term basis to assist with the transition and succession planning.

Long-term consultant Iain Moody may see his responsibilities expanded as the club looks to maintain the momentum built under Freedman’s leadership.

Freedman’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Crystal Palace, but his legacy of talent identification and squad development ensures the club is well-positioned for continued growth.

Jamie Carragher has urged Liverpool to make significant investments in their attack this summer following their 2-1 Carabao Cup final defeat to Newcastle.

The Reds struggled to break down a resilient Newcastle side, with Mohamed Salah unable to inspire a comeback.

Despite the loss, Carragher defended Salah and shifted the focus to the need for reinforcements in the squad.

Newcastle’s Triumph and Liverpool’s Struggles

Newcastle secured their first domestic trophy in 70 years with goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak, while Federico Chiesa’s late strike proved insufficient for Liverpool.

Salah had a quiet game, but Carragher pointed to the lack of impact from other attackers like Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, and Cody Gakpo as the real issue.

“It was probably one of the worst performances I’ve seen from Liverpool in a cup final,” Carragher said on Sky Sports. “But they’ve given so much this season and they’ve lost one league game. It’s hard to be too critical, but it has shone a light on areas where Liverpool still need to improve.”

Carragher’s Defense of Salah

Carragher argued that Salah has been unfairly criticized, especially after facing top defenders like PSG’s Nuno Mendes in recent games.

He emphasized that Salah lacks the support he once had from players like Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino during Jurgen Klopp’s tenure.

“He doesn’t get help from the other attackers. This isn’t like under Jurgen Klopp where [Sadio] Mane or [Roberto] Firmino could bail them out of trouble. The other attackers Liverpool have got are good players, but they’re not great players,” Carragher explained.

A Call for New Signings

Carragher believes Liverpool must sign at least two top-quality attackers this summer to ease the burden on Salah and elevate the team’s attacking threat. “They’ve relied on him too much, so I don’t want to see too much criticism of Mo Salah over this last week. What it’s shone a light on is that Liverpool need to go out and buy two attackers – not as squad players, but possibly to play alongside Mo Salah, hopefully, next season.”

Despite Federico Chiesa’s arrival last summer, his contributions have been modest, with just two goals and two assists in 11 appearances.

Carragher’s comments highlight the need for Liverpool to address their attacking depth if they are to compete for major trophies.

Salah’s Contract Situation

Salah’s future at Liverpool remains uncertain, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season.

The Egyptian has been in sensational form, scoring 32 goals and providing 22 assists in all competitions.

Losing him would leave a massive void in Liverpool’s attack, making it crucial for the club to either secure his future or find a suitable replacement.

While Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final defeat was disappointing, Carragher remains optimistic about the team’s potential. “I’ve been excited thinking it looks like Liverpool are going to win the league, and there is still lots to improve – and I think they will in the summer.”

As the season progresses, Liverpool’s focus will be on strengthening their squad and ensuring they remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions.

With the right additions, they could return stronger next season and challenge for silverware once again.