Lionel Messi will represent Argentina again as they prepare for two matches this September. Led by the 38-year-old captain Messi, the Argentine squad features emerging stars such as Franco Mastantuono from Real Madrid and Claudio Echeverri from Manchester City.

Additionally, Palmeiras striker Jose Manuel Lopez has received his first call-up for the World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Ecuador. Coach Lionel Scaloni has noticed Lopez’s impressive goal tally at Palmeiras since joining from Lanús, having netted 15 goals in 42 appearances this year.

Argentina is set to face Venezuela at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires on September 4 and will travel to Guayaquil to take on Ecuador on September 9.

The reigning world champions have already claimed their place in the 2026 World Cup and lead the South American qualification process.

Messi returns to Inter Miami after a brief absence due to a muscle injury in his right leg. However, Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández will not participate due to a two-match suspension following his red card against Colombia in June. Alan Varela, a standout player from Porto, will take his place.