Messi receives the most disappointing news with the Argentina national team

Lionel Messi's Argentina squad will most likely be without a key player during the November FIFA international window.

According to TyC Sports, in the official call-up list for Argentina's November FIFA international matches, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will definitely be absent. In the friendly match against Angola in the capital Luanda, a different goalkeeper will take the position instead of Dibu as usual.

Reports indicate that Martinez's absence is a decision made by coach Lionel Scaloni. The coach had a direct conversation with the World Cup 2022 winner and two-time Copa America champion, informing him that he would not be called up for the upcoming international fixtures. Argentina will gather in Alicante, Spain before traveling to Africa, and Scaloni wants to give another goalkeeper the chance to gain experience and confidence wearing the La Albiceleste jersey.

Dibu Martinez is still regarded as an irreplaceable choice in goal and one of the key players in the team’s ongoing rejuvenation process. With his solid status aiming toward the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, the coaching staff wants to give the 1992-born star necessary rest while also providing opportunities for backup options to play.

The likely starter against Angola is Walter Benitez, a goalkeeper who left PSV Eindhoven to join Crystal Palace. However, in the Premier League, he has yet to make an appearance as Dean Henderson holds the starting spot, having only played two matches in the Carabao Cup.

Besides Benitez, coach Scaloni will also call up Geronimo Rulli, while the remaining spot will almost certainly go to Facundo Cambeses, Racing's goalkeeper who recently made his national team debut in a friendly match against Puerto Rico in the USA last month.

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi is almost certain to be included in the upcoming call-up. Despite being 38 years old, the Argentina captain remains the "flag bearer" in securing positive results for the team and is carefully considering his decision regarding participation in the 2026 World Cup.

To date, Messi has appeared 195 times for Argentina, contributing 114 goals and 60 assists. The Inter Miami star will have the chance to boost these impressive stats as La Albiceleste faces Angola, a team considered weaker, in the upcoming friendly.

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