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Paulo Dybala is reportedly set to replace Lionel Messi as Argentina's new no. 10 in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers in September. La Albiceleste will welcome Chile to Estadio Mas Monumental for their first game on Thursday, September 5.
Lionel Messi is currently out of action after an ankle injury sustained in the Copa America 2024 final. The talismanic Argentine suffered an awkward fall in the first half, twisting his right ankle. Although he powered on for another 30 minutes, Messi went down and had to be substituted in the 66th minute.
Lionel Messi has, hence, not been included in Argentina's squad for the World Cup 2026 qualifiers in September. According to a report by journalist Diego Monroig (published by @AlbicelesteTalk on X), Paulo Dybala will be in the lineup as the new No. 10 in Messi's absence. The 30-year-old was impressive for AS Roma last season, scoring 16 and assisting 10 in 39 appearances in all competitions.
Lionel Scaloni will also miss the services of Angel Di Maria in the Argentine frontline. The winger announced his retirement after Copa America 2024 and will be honored before the game against Chile.
Lionel Scaloni on who will wear Argentina's number 10 jersey in Lionel Messi's absence
Lionel Scaloni provided a clear-cut response when asked about who will wear Argentina's number 10 jersey in Lionel Messi's absence. He said via TBT Sports Argentina:
"When Messi wasn't there, [Angel] Correa and other players used the number 10. It's not a problem, we know that the number 10 has an owner. The number 11 doesn't have one now."
According to Inter Miami manager Tata Martino, the Argentina captain could be back in action by mid-September to early October, before the MLS playoffs begin. If his recovery journey goes as planned, Messi could be in La Albiceleste's squad before their October World Cup qualifiers.
Meanwhile, Rodrigo De Paul has been anticipated to take up the captaincy armband in the absence of Lionel Messi. When asked, the Atletico de Madrid midfielder refuted such claims, sayin (via GOAL):
"I always say that I play the role that they give me. It's been many years. I feel like an important player in this team. That's all I can say. Afterwards, we know that the armband belongs to Leo. Whoever has to wear it will be circumstantial because he is the captain of this team."
Argentina have been in excellent form, boasting an 11-game winning streak in all competitions. They are at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying standings while Chile are groveling at number eight with just one win in six games.
The two sides have met 17 times in World Cup qualifiers, with Argentina winning 12 and recording just one loss. The two teams last met in the Copa America group stages in June. Lautaro Martinez's 88th-minute strike sealed a 1-0 win for La Albiceleste.
