BUENOS AIRES, Argentina.- The Argentina national football team commenced their first training session in preparation for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, facing historic rivals Uruguay on Thursday and Brazil the following Tuesday. Despite several absences due to tight schedules, the team's spirits were high, particularly with Lionel Messi's presence at the training ground.

Pablo Maffeo, the 26-year-old Mallorca right-back with Argentine maternal lineage, born in Spain, became the highlight of the day. His unexpected inclusion in Lionel Scaloni's squad drew considerable attention. Messi, along with teammates Paredes, De Paul, and Lo Celso, welcomed Maffeo, creating a memorable moment for the newcomer.

Messi, enjoying a successful phase in his career post the Qatar World Cup win and his eighth Ballon d'Or triumph, is currently with Inter Miami and won the Leagues Cup. With the Argentine team, Messi has maintained optimal effectiveness, securing 12 points in four qualifier matches. His return to play in front of a home crowd, especially against Uruguay and potential future MLS teammate Luis Suárez, adds to the excitement.

Messi's joyful and relaxed demeanor was evident in a story he shared on Instagram, depicting him leaning against a post, beverage in hand, smiling – a perfect embodiment of his current state of happiness and commitment.

The Argentine captain, now enjoying a longer end-of-year break compared to his time in Europe, participated in the Monday practice session, reuniting with long-time teammates and getting acquainted with Maffeo. The team's focus is now on the upcoming match against Marcelo Bielsa's Uruguay at the Bombonera stadium and the subsequent challenge against Brazil in Rio de Janeiro's Maracanã, albeit without Neymar but still a formidable opponent.

Maffeo's journey to joining the national team was not without hurdles. He spent hours at Renaper offices finalizing his Argentine nationality, nearly missing the opportunity to join the squad.

Seven European-based players, including Nico Otamendi, Ángel Di María, Lautaro Martínez, Nico Tagliafico, Francisco Ortega, Huevo Acuña, and Lucas Ocampos, faced delays due to their club commitments and are expected to join the team on Tuesday.

Scaloni faces decisions regarding the lineup, weighing options between Nico González and Di María, and considering Lautaro's recent form at Inter to potentially challenge Julián Álvarez for a starting spot. The Argentine public eagerly anticipates seeing Messi and the team in action, with the same fervor that Messi displays in donning the national team's jersey.