Scaloni and Lionel Messi: Argentina start uncertain new era before Bolivia friendly | OneFootball

Argentina begin a new era without Lionel Messi, starting with a friendly against Bolivia in the early hours of Thursday. According to L'Équipe, Messi will return next week for a final cameo that will have the feel of a testimonial.

Kick-off is at two am. The broader outlook remains uncertain.

At the World Cup on 17 June, Nico Paz replaced Messi in a 3-0 win over Algeria.

Two months have passed since the World Cup final, lost 0-1 to Spain after extra time, a defeat followed by controversy.

Argentina were fined $321,000, around €283,228, and Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada received suspensions of 10, seven and one matches respectively for acts of aggression. Yet those episodes, like investigations into suspected tax evasion at the federation’s leadership, feel removed from immediate priorities.

Source: L'Équipe

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