The Real Reason Lionel Messi Abruptly Left the Argentina National Team Just Hours Before Their Match

Inter Miami captain granted permission to skip national team match for crucial MLS fixture

The Real Reason Lionel Messi Abruptly Left the Argentina National Team Just Hours Before Their Match

Lionel Messi's left Argentina’s training camp in Miami just hours before their friendly against Venezuela after being granted permission by the coaching staff to skip the match.

According to BOLAVIP , the Argentina captain missed the 1st international friendly of October against Venezuela on Saturday due to joining Inter Miami to prepare for their postponed MLS match against Atlanta United on Sunday morning.

The upcoming fixture, delayed from mid year due to Inter Miami’s participation in the FIFA club world cup's crucial in the race for the MLS Supporters Shield awarded to the best regular season team.

Inter Miami must win to keep their title hopes alive and Messi's reportedly determined to help his club at this decisive stage of the season.

🚨 Lionel Messi has been released from the Argentina national team camp to play against Atlanta United tomorrow. He’s expected to return for the match against Puerto Rico on Tuesday. @BolavipAr 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/Y3JeVstw9n

— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) October 10, 2025

Reports suggest that head coach Lionel Scaloni fully supported Messi's decision as the friendly carries no competitive significance.

20.14 EDT: 🇦🇷 - 🇻🇪

Lionel Messi in attendance at Hard Rock Stadium; despite being included in the squad for the window, he will not be playing, in part to rest for the MLS playoff campaign with Inter Miami CF.#football#soccer#fútbol#futbol#conmebol#argentina#ARGVENpic.twitter.com/ZASSTrQ1Oa

— Simo Frigolé (@kettusport) October 11, 2025