Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has been left out of Argentina’s squad for next month’s international fixture against Brazil in Saudi Arabia.
As part of the Chevrolet Brasil Global Tour, La Albiceleste will face their eternal rivals in Jeddah on October 16, but Messi will not be present.
Earlier this month, the 30-year-old also missed friendly encounters in the United States against Guatemala and Colombia, and will once again be afforded more time off following Argentina’s disappointing World Cup campaign in Russia.
Interim coach Lionel Scaloni will continue to lead the side, with Iraq on October 11, being Argentina’s first assignment in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero, Paris Saint-Germain winger Angel Di Maria and AC Milan hitman Gonzalo Higuain will also play no part.