Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is reportedly weighing up two important changes to his starting line-up for the World Cup 2026 semi-final against England, amid concerns over Lionel Messi's fitness. The match is set to take place in Atlanta on Tuesday.
Messi missed training after the quarter-final win over Switzerland due to a knock to the eye from Granit Xhaka. Despite the pain, he completed the full 120 minutes. He has featured in all but one of Argentina's matches this tournament, coming on as a substitute against Jordan and being withdrawn late against Algeria.
Fitness Concerns Beyond Messi
Defender Cristian Romero and midfielder Leandro Paredes were substituted in extra time against Switzerland, raising further fitness issues. However, all three players are expected to recover or prove their fitness before facing Thomas Tuchel's England side.
Argentina completed their final training session in Kansas City behind closed doors on Monday evening before departing for Atlanta. According to TyC Sports, Scaloni kept his line-up under wraps, reportedly waiting to familiarise with the surroundings in Georgia before making a decision.
Potential Changes in Midfield and Attack
Scaloni has named an unchanged starting XI for four consecutive matches, but signs of fatigue have emerged. The Argentine outlet reports that midfield is the area of least confidence. Should Messi's condition worsen, Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez could start together for the first time in the tournament. Alvarez scored a stunning curler in the 112th minute against Switzerland, with Martinez sealing the win in stoppage time.
Throughout the campaign, Alvarez and Martinez have alternated on the bench to keep fresh. Messi's potential burnout could force adjustments. Either Rodrigo De Paul or Alexis Mac Allister, who scored the opener against Switzerland, may be dropped to accommodate Nicolas Gonzalez. However, Mac Allister's familiarity with former teammates and Premier League rivals could give him an edge.
Defensive Adjustment Possible
In defence, Nahuel Molina's position is under threat after being substituted for Gonzalo Montiel in the 85th minute against Switzerland. Scaloni may hand Montiel a starting berth, despite Molina's regular starts throughout the World Cup.
"What this team has achieved is historic, even though we could have played better. It's historic to be in a semi-final again," Scaloni said. "It's a privileged space in football, not an easy feat. We're happy and excited now, and we will try to make it to the end with every last drop of sweat."
