*WHAT HAPPENED?*
Lionel Messi was forced to leave the pitch during Argentina's Copa America final victory over Colombia this summer and has since been absent from both the national team and Inter Miami due to an ankle injury. However, there is optimism about his return, with national coach Scaloni indicating that they are aiming for him to be back in about two weeks.
*WHAT SCALONI SAID*
In a statement before Argentina's World Cup qualifier against Colombia on Tuesday, Scaloni remarked, "It's challenging for a team not to rely on Messi because he’s an exceptional player. However, this team has a game strategy that remains consistent regardless of who is on the field. Everyone plays the same way. When Leo is absent, we maintain that approach, though we miss his unique final touch."
He added, "We hope Messi can return to playing soon. When we need to submit the next squad list, we will communicate with everyone, and he will be included if fit. This will be in about two weeks, and then we’ll assess his readiness."