The Argentina national team has arrived in Miami ahead of their October FIFA international window. They are set to play two friendlies in the United States, starting with a match against Venezuela. Coach Lionel Scaloni is unsure if Lionel Messi will play in the first game or be rested for the second match against Puerto Rico.
This uncertainty comes from Messi’s recent fitness level, as he has played the full 90 minutes in seven consecutive matches for Inter Miami over the last 21 days. Additionally, he has the MLS playoffs coming up, which will be a significant challenge for the team.
At a press conference, Scaloni stated he plans to discuss Messi’s condition with him, highlighting the intention to avoid unnecessary risks. He noted that Marcos Acuña is also in a similar situation.
“We’re going to talk with him and with everyone,” Scaloni told reporters. “The idea is not to risk anyone. These are friendlies, and while the national team is important, anyone with even a minor issue won’t be risked. But if they’re fit, they’ll play.”
Lionel Messi played his last game with Argentina against Venezuela in a Qualifier match. (Getty Images)
Scaloni will also be without Thiago Almada for these matches, requiring him to find alternatives for that position. Young talents like Franco Mastantuono and Nico Paz may get a chance to start.
Possible Argentina lineup vs Venezuela
Reports suggest that Scaloni’s strategy is to give as many players as possible some playing time, starting the match against Venezuela with regular starters. Therefore, Messi could still be in the lineup unless he experiences any physical discomfort.
The expected lineup for Argentina against Venezuela may include: Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez; Lionel Messi/Nico Paz/Franco Mastantuono and Julian Alvarez.
In the second friendly against Puerto Rico, several new players could make their debuts, such as goalkeeper Facundo Cambeses (Racing Club), defender Lautaro Rivero (River Plate), midfielder Anibal Moreno (Palmeiras), and forward Jose Manuel Lopez (Palmeiras).