Lionel Messi, an Argentine, is doubtful to play for the Albiceleste on their March FIFA window trip of the United States due to a muscular ailment that kept him out of the most recent MLS match between Inter Miami and DC United.

While the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has not released an official statement, supporters and regional media alike almost certainly anticipate the captain of the Albiceleste being absent from the next Copa America, which will see Argentina defend the title won in Brazil in 2021, against El Salvador and Costa Rica.

Messi’s documented right hamstring ιnjury—which forced him to exit last Wednesday’s game against Nashville—could keep him out of the friendly against the Central American clubs.

In the press conference following the game, Inter Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino discussed the matter and emphasized that his top goal is to make sure Lionel Messi is healthy for the Concacaf Champions League quarterfinal.

“After today’s absence, the ιnjury must be monitored on a week-to-week basis. We make use of full weeks, and we’ll be reviewing it often,” Martino clarified. “As for the national team issue, I think the representatives of the national team should talk,” he continued.

As part of their preparation for the Copa America, Argentina has planned games against El Salvador at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on March 22 and Costa Rica at the Los Angeles Coliseum on March 26.

Apart from Messi, Paulo Dybala’s ιnjury has also been confirmed, meaning he will also be out from Lionel Scaloni’s starting lineup. Despite suffering a knee ligament ιnjury in February, Lisandro Martínez, a defender for Manchester United, has been included by the coach. Additionally, Scaloni called up Nicolás Valentini, a center-back for Boca Juniors, to replace Marcos Senesi, a player from Bournemouth.