Scaloni: cautious with Messi on tour, World Cup squad still up in the air | OneFootball

The FIFA date for October is looming. With the squad already present in Miami, the Argentina National Team is preparing for matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico. In a press conference, coach Lionel Scaloni revealed that he will be cautious with Lionel Messi, who has a heavy load of matches with Inter Miami.

"We are going to talk to him and everyone else. The idea is not to risk anyone. These are friendly matches and the National Team is important, but anyone who has a minimal problem, in the case of Huevo (Marcos Acuña) as well, we are not going to risk anyone, but if they are in condition, surely yes," said the 47-year-old coach.

In 21 days, the captain of the Albiceleste played seven matches, in which he played all possible minutes, which results in the coach's caution. However, he could be a starter against La Vinotinto (Friday 10 at 9 pm) and then rotate against El Huracán Azul (Monday 13 at 8 pm).

In addition, Scaloni commented on the coaching staff's plan for the incoming friendlies: "We are going to try to see people that we have brought to see how they are. They can get on board, as we always say and the idea is that, take advantage of these matches to see them. Beyond that we have a base, I think these are nice matches to be able to enjoy these guys".

The call-up of the Pujato-born has several surprise names, who could debut with the Albiceleste. They are Facundo Cambeses (Racing), Lautaro Rivero (River), Aníbal Moreno (Palmeiras) and José Manuel Flaco López (Palmeiras).

Finally, the coach reflected on the possible roster for the 2026 World Cup: "Beyond that we have the base, you never know what can happen. We have the experience of the previous World Cup, where players dropped out at the last minute. The lists can be of 23 (players), hopefully it will be 26 as it seems it will be, but the slots are few. We are open to whatever. As new guys have come now, they will continue to come if we see it appropriate".

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.