Lionel Messi Not in Argentina Squad for Friendlies, International Future Unclear

Lionel Messi hasn't been called up for Argentina's upcoming international friendlies against Guatemala and Colombia as the Barcelona star considers his international future.

TNT Sports (h/t Mundo Deportivo, via Alex Smith of the Mirror) previously reported Messi had decided not to feature for the team again in 2018.

On Friday, he wasn't included in the squad:

According to Sport, Messi told new Albiceleste coach Lionel Scaloni he needs time to make a decision.

The 31-year-old suffered heartbreak with the national team yet again this summer, as Argentina played out a disappointing World Cup. The South American giants only just made it out of the group stages and were soundly beaten by eventual champions France in the next round.

It might have been Messi's last chance to win the tournament, or indeed any major international tournament. He already retired from the Albiceleste once after suffering similar heartbreak at the 2016 Copa America. Messi hasn't won any competitions with the side since the 2008 Olympics.

His lack of success on the international stage stands in stark contrast to his club career:

Football writer Andy West believes the decision to sit out for now might not be an indication he's planning to retire:

The squad that will play Guatemala and Colombia in the U.S. features two exciting young forwards in Lautaro Martinez and Giovanni Simeone, who are regarded as the future of the team. The former joined Inter Milan earlier this summer, while the latter has impressed for Fiorentina.

Messi's absence could open the door for one of them to step up. If they impress, that may lead Messi back to the squad, with the belief the Albiceleste might finally be ready to win some silverware.