Scaloni provides Messi update ahead of World Cup opener

Lionel Scaloni spoke to the media ahead of Argentina’s World Cup opener against Algeria in Kansas, providing an update on several players who arrived carrying minor knocks. He also reflected on Argentina’s opening defeat to Saudi Arabia at the 2022 World Cup, a reminder that unexpected results can happen, even four years later.

Debut: “We have the experience of the last World Cup. The first match is important, but you can recover from it. The message we bring is one of calm. We arrived in good shape. Experience gives you peace of mind. The commitment is the same as always. We are neither more nor less than anyone else.”

Starting XI: “Bielsa said it yesterday. One way or another, you’ll find out the team. Dibu is fine and available, so if everything continues as it has over the last few days, he will play.”

Three centre-backs: “We always test different options. Whether we play with four defenders or three centre-backs doesn’t depend on missing players. We’ve worked on both systems. We still haven’t decided, but the team’s essence remains the same.”

The secret: “We’ve reached this point because we’ve managed to take the pressure off, to lighten the burden. That has been one of the key pillars, allowing the players to go onto the pitch and play with calmness. We’ve won a World Cup and we’re still facing the same tense situations. At the end of the day, it’s still a sport. There are many things in life that matter more than this. Our job is to keep competing.”

Messi: “Everyone wants to see him on the pitch. That’s the effect he has on people, not just Argentines. I don’t see anything negative about it. He has always been there for us and has been fundamental. Now he will be even more important.”

Julián Álvarez: “Julián had an ankle issue, but his recovery has gone well and he’s available for tomorrow. He’s an option.”

The opponent: “Algeria are similar to Morocco. They have excellent players and a very good coach. Watching Brazil against Morocco is a good example. We’ve also seen Spain and know there are no easy opponents. Algeria earned the right to be at this World Cup, and they have players of the highest level.”

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