Lionel Messi will not take part in Argentina's World Cup qualifier against Venezuela next week due to a groin injury.
TheArgentina FAconfirmed that Messi admitted that the injury was causing him concern during the match and that he would consult the team's doctor.
The striker, who scored Argentina's winner against Uruguay after coming back out of retirement, told reporters: "I don't know if I can be there [versus Venezuela]. My groin hurts a lot.
"It is messed up and it could get worse. I always want to play, but the truth is that the season is just starting and there are a lot of important matches ahead of us. I'll see what the doctor says and go by how I feel."
Following Friday's training session Argentina coachEdgardo Bauza said: "Messi won't be able to play in the next match; there is inflammation in that groin injury and we must rest him."
After speaking with the medical team a report was released saying: "The captain of the national team is suffering from inguinocrural pain. As a result, he will not participate in the next World Cup qualifying match.
"This morning, Lionel Messi underwent medical and kinesiological treatment for the groin and thigh pain. It is recommended that he continue to rest from activity and will not play against Venezuela."
The team will continue to train in the Argentina capital until Sunday, before travelling to Venezuela without the Barcelona man ahead of the game on Tuesday. Following their victory over Uruguay, theArgentinessit top of the qualifying group whilst their next opponents sit bottom with a solitary point.
Lionel Messi is the player with most GOALS (38 Goals) and most assists (26 Assists) in 2016. Amazing.. pic.twitter.com/rcQmRypNBT