Despite the fact that the Copa América has been canceled this year, Lionel Scaloni has issued an ultimatum to the members of this all-conquering Argentina team.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni appeared before the media on Monday and spoke to reporters ahead of his side's World Cup qualifier against Peru. He took the opportunity to give his team an ultimatum.
The World Cup-winning coach revealed that changes will take place at the Albiceleste in 2025, with priority given to those who regularly play for their club teams.
He explained: “We need them to play. These six [World Cup qualifying] matches were very close together after the Copa América. We chose to continue with the group that brought us success and there wasn't much time to bring in other players. But from now on we need everyone to play and determine everyone's level from there.”
But Scaloni quickly made one exception: Lionel Messi.
With Inter Miami eliminated from the MLS Cup play-offs, Messi will not be allowed to play another competitive match until March 2025. Nevertheless, Scaloni has no problem maintaining confidence in the 37-year-old.
“In Leo's case it is very different. Leo always plays, I would say that sometimes he needs to rest and that would be better. But we don't think beyond that. It is important that there is continuity.”
“Leo's year is the year of a player who has played a lot of matches, has been available a lot, who has had a Copa América in between. It's very difficult for him to be 100% and not have any physical problems, I think that's normal. He suffered an injury that disrupted his plans a bit, but overall he has always been good for us,” the Argentine head coach emphasized.
Can Argentina recover from a bad run?
Heading into Tuesday's match, Argentina are in unusually poor form. The world and continental champions have won just one of their past four matches, a home victory over Bolivia.
During the next international break, which takes place in March 2025, Argentina faces tough tests against Uruguay and Brazil. There is also the prospect of meeting European champions Spain in the Finalissima, something that could further complicate the fixture list for Argentina's much-traveled side.
Scaloni explained: “The Finalissima next year is not easy because Spain is participating in the World Cup qualifiers. Given the schedule, I don't see this happening. We'll see.”
“We're going into the game [against Peru] with the feeling that we have been together a lot, while before we saw very few players. If you add to that the matches with their clubs, where they have not had a break… It is a topic that is talked about a lot. We have played a lot since June.”
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