Regardless of an sudden loss to Paraguay, the Argentina nationwide staff stays in one of many biggest intervals in its historical past. With Lionel Messi main the cost, the staff has received 4 consecutive trophies, together with the top achievement—the 2022 World Cup. Nonetheless, coach Lionel Scaloni has set his sights on renewing the roster for future challenges, sending a transparent message to Messi and the squad in regards to the staff composition for 2025.
Scaloni has beforehand hinted at making adjustments to the squad however cited the quick turnaround between the 2024 Copa América and World Cup qualifiers as a limiting issue. Talking forward of Argentina’s ultimate match of the yr in opposition to Peru, Scaloni outlined his strategy for evaluating gamers in preparation for the upcoming fixtures:
“We want the gamers to play for his or her golf equipment, these 6 video games after the Copa America had been to shut to the competitors, that’s why we introduced within the core group of gamers that received us the cup, and there wasn’t time to name up different gamers. However beginning now, we’d like them to be taking part in at their golf equipment, and we’ll resolve based mostly on their efficiency degree.
“We’ve at all times carried out it this manner, besides on this event, the place we determined in some circumstances to maintain bringing them as a result of they’re essential,” added Scaloni. With 2025 Finalissima nonetheless unsure, Argentina’s subsequent match will likely be in opposition to Uruguay in March 2025, giving Scaloni a four-month window to evaluate gamers and construct a aggressive squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Scaloni addresses Messi’s case
When discussing Lionel Messi’s case, Scaloni emphasised that the captain’s function is exclusive. “In Leo’s case, it’s an entire totally different factor. He at all times performs, and there are circumstances the place he needs to be resting. We actually don’t assume too far forward with him,” mentioned Scaloni in regards to the staff captain.
Reflecting on Messi’s yr, Scaloni praised the veteran for his dedication and resilience: “Leo’s yr is a yr of a participant that featured in numerous video games, that had a Copa America within the center, and at this level, it’s actually tough for this type of gamers to be 100% and never have any difficulty. I see it as a traditional yr by way of matches, he suffered that harm that busted his plans, however usually he was nice with us.”
Scaloni dismisses FIFA rating
Following France’s UEFA Nations League victory over Italy, hypothesis arose that Les Bleus may overtake Argentina on the prime of the FIFA World Rankings if Argentina fails to beat Peru. Scaloni, nonetheless, dismissed these issues.
“I’m not apprehensive in regards to the FIFA rating; we’re nonetheless first. The statistics are there, however I don’t assume it’s that essential. What issues is profitable tomorrow, and the whole lot else is secondary,” Argentina boss said.
Loading…