Who will play for Argentina against Paraguay if Messi is injured?

Argentina are preparing to face their second round of games in the South American Qualifiers with a big doubt overhead: Lionel Messi’s fitness. The issue has been a matter of concern in the South American country, with journalist Gastón Edul revealing the news that the ‘10′ is likely to start from the bench against Paraguay on Thursday 12 October 2023, with kick-off at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

The world champion coach, Lionel Scaloni, referred to this possibility in his press conference prior to the match. Argentina are already evaluating their options to replace the mystical playmaker if, in the end, he cannot play in the third qualifier game for La Albiceleste.

If he does not feature, it would not be the first time in these South American Qualifiers that Messi does not show up. Against Bolivia the captain had to watch the match from the bench after suffering from discomfort in his leg, a problem that would persist and end up keeping him out for the entire month of September as the wheels fell of Inter Miami’s playoff push.

‘He looked good and from there we’ll see’

“We still have a training session to go and it’s important for Leo. We think he looks good and we will speak before to see if he can play from the start or not. From there the team can change, but I have to speak to him and above all it’s important he’s OK, and that we are convinced that he can play from the start. He looked good and from there we’ll see the rest of the team”, Lionel Scaloni told the press.

Messi, who has been linked to a move to Saudi Arabia, is the keystone in Lionel Scaloni’s project. Argentina’s game revolves around its star, as seen in the World Cup in Qatar, where he was the team’s top scorer and the standout performer. His ability to be present at every moment or appear out of nowhere makes him a near-impossible weapon to replace.

Despite this, in Argentina there is talk of a double-pronged attack of Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez to face Paraguay. Both players have arrived to the call up in optimal shape, as well as having been given more responsibility in their club sides.

Scaloni’s concern about Messi’s minutes in Miami

Inter Miami’s elimination from the MLS postseason continues to cause a stir stateside. Messi will be out of action for almost five months until the new season starts in February next year. Although the pace of competition worries Argentina, Lionel Scaloni was clear about the situation, saying Messi will have continuity in the game thanks to specific training and friendly games that may arise.

“He will continue to work until the next FIFA date as far as the Argentina National Team is concerned. Being selfish, it doesn’t hurt us much. For the next games (against Brazil and Uruguay) there will be training and matches, so it is not a problem. And with what will happen next, I haven’t spoke about it but it is logical that he will have a much-deserved holiday and will return to training with his team later. It doesn’t disrupt the National Team’s plans much,” he concluded.