Lionel Messi’s Argentina regains key player for crucial World Cup Qualifiers vs. Brazil and Uruguay

With the first international break of 2025 approaching, Lionel Messi is set to return to the Argentina national team after a five-month absence. As Argentina prepares to face Brazil and Uruguay in the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, the squad has regained a key defensive asset.

Currently leading the standings, Argentina faces a demanding week with matches against second-placed Uruguay and a Brazil squad bolstered by Neymar’s return. For this reason, coach Lionel Scaloni is counting on his strongest squad possible — including a crucial player who is now back in action.

Argentina will welcome back standout center-back Cristian Romero for the World Cup Qualifiers. The Tottenham Hotspur defender recently returned to action after spending over three months sidelined with a muscle injury and is now fit for international duty.

Romero sustained a quadriceps muscle tear on December 8, with an initial recovery timeline of six weeks. However, setbacks during his rehabilitation extended his absence, delaying his return to the pitch. His 61-minute appearance against Bournemouth marked the end of a lengthy recovery process that proved more challenging than expected.

Romero’s return is crucial for Argentina, especially with Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez unavailable due to an ACL injury. Now fully recovered, Romero is expected to partner with Nicolas Otamendi in Argentina’s defensive lineup.

Romero opens up on his recovery struggles

Romero faced persistent injury troubles throughout the season, but this latest setback proved particularly frustrating as his return date was repeatedly delayed. After finally making his comeback, the Argentine defender shared a heartfelt message on social media.

“After a difficult period full of things that happened along the way, I’m back with the group and happy to be able to help the team,” Romero wrote on his X account, expressing his determination to help Tottenham bounce back as well.

He also credited Argentina’s medical staff for their support during his recovery: “Grateful to the physios of Argentina for getting me through a tough time and putting me back on the pitch where I’m so happy. Thanks to everyone for the constant support.”