According to a report by GOAL on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Liverpool loanee Ronald Araujo has warned Uruguay against underestimating Argentina ahead of their international friendly, insisting that the reigning world champions remain a football powerhouse despite Lionel Messi's retirement from international football.

The Uruguay defender is preparing to face Argentina in the 197th edition of the Clasico del Rio de la Plata at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires on Friday.

Argentina will enter the encounter without Messi, who brought his international career to an end last month after representing his country for 21 years.

The Inter Miami forward enjoyed a remarkable international career, scoring 126 goals in 208 appearances for the Albiceleste. His achievements included winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa America titles and the 2022 Finalissima.

However, Araujo believes Argentina have enough quality within their squad to remain among the strongest national teams in world football.

Speaking to reporters after arriving at Carrasco International Airport, the 26-year-old acknowledged the importance of the friendly for Uruguay's development and expressed confidence in his country's ability to compete against their neighbours.

The former Barcelona defender also warned his team-mates that Messi's absence should not create a false sense of security ahead of the encounter.

According to Araujo, Argentina still possess several talented young players capable of maintaining the country's high standards despite losing one of the greatest footballers in history.

The defender knows Messi well, having shared the pitch with the Argentine during their time together at Barcelona. Both players also celebrated winning the 2020-21 Copa del Rey before the forward departed the Spanish club.

Araujo is enjoying a fresh opportunity in England after joining Liverpool on loan from Barcelona, having previously struggled with injuries that prevented him from featuring at the 2026 World Cup.

The centre-back also expressed excitement about representing Uruguay during the international window, particularly with the opportunity to play in front of supporters at home.

Following Friday's meeting with Argentina, Uruguay will return home to face the Dominican Republic at the Campus de Maldonado on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, head coach Diego Forlan has handed maiden senior international call-ups to goalkeeper Sebastian Jaume and Philadelphia Union forward Bruno Damiani as he continues shaping the squad.

Uruguay will be hoping to produce a strong performance against Argentina after suffering a 1-0 defeat in their previous meeting during the World Cup qualifiers on March 21, 2025.