Key Points
- Argentina to test new players with World Cup spot secured
- We are going to be missing a lot of players: Argentina’s coach
- Argentina sit top of the South American qualifying table
ISLAMABAD: Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said on Wednesday that he had not yet decided whether captain Lionel Messi would start in their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Chile, as he continues to closely monitor the 37-year-old’s fitness.
With their place at the 2026 World Cup already secured, Argentina — who sit top of the South American qualifying table — are set to face bottom-placed Chile on Thursday, missing several regulars and with Messi’s involvement still uncertain.
“We’ve been in contact with Messi recently. We haven’t decided yet on whether he’ll start. It would be useful to know how he’s feeling physically,” Scaloni told reporters.
World Cup title defence
“At this point, we’re in a position where we can try out different things. In principle, he’s available, and we’ll make a decision later.”
With a number of key players out due to injury or suspension, Scaloni described the situation as an opportunity to test new talent ahead of their World Cup title defence next summer in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
“We’re going to be missing a lot of players. If the lads we’ve called up are fit and ready, they’ll be given a chance,” he said.
“I haven’t finalised the starting eleven yet, but we’ll give some playing time to those who haven’t featured much and who we believe are ready.”
“Although the result is always important, it’s not crucial right now. Our aim is to help these players settle in and give them time on the pitch with the team.”
The 47-year-old manager emphasised that Argentina’s mindset remains the same and that delivering a strong performance is still a priority.
Strong position
“We want to play — it’s good for us to observe other players, even those currently performing well. A match is never unwelcoming,” said Scaloni.
“It’s not as though national teams play so frequently that we’d say we don’t want this fixture. Quite the opposite. We see it as a good match to play, even with its challenges. We’re in a strong position.”
Scaloni also gave his thoughts on Carlo Ancelotti’s appointment as Brazil manager, saying he believes the Italian will further strengthen the five-time world champions.
“I think it’s fantastic. We’re talking about one of the best managers of recent times. He’ll raise Brazil’s profile even more,” Scaloni added.
“I admire his approach and everything about him. I believe he’ll do well. Ultimately, he adds value to the game. He’s welcome here, and I wish him all the best.”
