Scaloni on Messi’s involvement, two possible debuts against Venezuela | OneFootball

This Friday, October 10th at 9:00 PM at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, the Argentina National Team will play a friendly match against Venezuela, as part of a new FIFA date—the first since the end of the South American Qualifiers. For this match, Lionel Messi's presence has not yet been confirmed, and it is possible that several of the surprise call-ups will make their debut wearing the sky blue and white jersey.

Regarding the captain's availability, the coach gave only a few hints: «We have spoken with him. We still haven't decided on the lineup. These are matches to try things out and observe, but we will talk with him and make a decision today. I would like to try different alternatives because these matches are for that purpose». He then commented on the possibility that he might play with Inter Miami during the international window against Atlanta United: «I will talk to him this afternoon and then we'll see. I don't have much more to say. We'll see.»

Additionally, the coach spoke about the chance for the Palmeiras call-ups to make their debut: «I had Aníbal in the U-20s. He was always more of a number 8 than a number 5, but for some time now he's been playing a more defensive role and he's doing it very well. We value him a lot. And José (López) has taken an important step forward after being called up. He has realized that he is good, that he can play well, and that he has interesting qualities. He needs to believe it, that's important. Another player who will surely get minutes and is gradually becoming part of the National Team.»

Lautaro Rivero was also a name mentioned during the press conference, about whom the Pujato-born coach highlighted the «good feelings» he is leaving, his «very good» potential, and that he will surely have the chance to wear the Albiceleste in this FIFA window.

«The first idea is to keep playing as a team. The final squad list won't be decided until the end. We have quite a few spots filled; we have more players than the list theoretically allows, which is 26. They will have to earn their place in these matches. Whoever gets to play needs to show they deserve it.», the coach said about his intentions for this week.

Finally, Scaloni commented that Emiliano Dibu Martínez is fit for the match against La Vinotinto, that he did some separate training, but is now available. On the other hand, Marcos Acuña will not set foot on the pitch, as the coaching staff decided «not to risk him», since he arrived at the camp with an issue that required him to do a full separate training routine.

After the match with Venezuela, Argentina will face Puerto Rico next Tuesday, October 14th at 8:00 PM, at Soldier Field Stadium in Chicago, a match that will mark the end of the international window.

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