Alarms are sounding for the Argentina national team with one of Lionel Messi's key partners sidelined, in what could be a decisive year ahead of the Finalissima 2026 and the 2026 World Cup just around the corner.

Lautaro Martínez injured, alarming the Albiceleste

The news of Lautaro Martínez injured quickly spread across Europe and South America. Inter Milan's star forward was forced off this Wednesday during a UEFA Champions League playoff match after suffering a sharp pain in his left calf. The Argentine striker had to be substituted immediately, raising serious concerns for both his club and the Argentina national team.

Inter endured a disappointing 3-1 defeat against Bodø/Glimt in Norway, complicating their path in the Champions League knockout stage. Now, the Italian giants may have to attempt a comeback without one of their most influential players.

Head coach Cristian Chivu did not sugarcoat the situation

"Will he be available for the return leg? He's injured, we've lost him. He's injured. Quite serious," Chivu admitted after the match.

The blunt assessment points to a potentially significant Lautaro Martínez injury update that could impact Inter's European aspirations and Argentina's upcoming international calendar.

Although there is still no official medical report, the uncertainty surrounding the Inter Milan forward has triggered alarm bells within the Albiceleste setup. Argentina is set to face Spain in the Finalissima match on March 27, and preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers are already underway.

With the well-established Messi-Lautaro partnership serving as a cornerstone of Argentina's attack, the major question remains: will the Toro recover in time to reunite with Lionel Messi and strengthen Argentina's ambitions on the road to 2026?