Lionel Messi is doubtful for the Champions League game against Benfica on Tuesday, after missing out on the French capital club training session on Monday.

The Argentinian international didn’t travel with his team last week Saturday as they were held to a barren draw against Stade de Reims.

It was reported that he missed the trip to Reims due to a calf contracture that was described as a “minor injury.” However, he is now set to miss consecutive games with the Ligue 1 champions.

Messi was absent from Monday morning’s training session and will therefore not be in the group to face the Portuguese side, Benfica. Messi’s injury was picked up during last Wednesday’s match against the Portuguese side.

Messi’s world-class strike at the Estadio da Luz had put his team in front in the 22nd minute, before the home side hit back through Danilo Pereira’s own goal in the 41st minute. Having felt discomfort in his calf, he was immediately substituted.

“Messi gestured saying he wanted to be substituted,” Galtier told RMC Sport last week after the game in Benfica.

“After making a sprint, he felt tired. He came off, because he felt tired and a fresh team mate was much better at that moment in the game.”

Galtier’s men are currently first in their Champions League group with seven points.

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