Argentina’s Lineup Question: Is Leo Ready to Start?
Leo, already trusted as a substitute against Paraguay, remains the big unknown for the Albiceleste. The coach signaled that a final decision on a potential start will come only after careful assessment of his match readiness. The uncertainty isn’t just about one game; it reflects a broader plan for the post-Messi era that Argentina has begun to map out, with the World Cup victory on December 18, 2022 serving as a defining milestone in the team’s history. Messi’s legacy is secure, yet Leo remains determined to contribute, even if his physical peak isn’t what it once was.
Argentina vs Peru: The Eliminatories Formation Spotlight
Last Thursday, Leo wasn’t in the starting XI and only entered the clash with Paraguay in the second half. With the Peru match in Lima approaching, head coach Lionel Scaloni could not publicly confirm whether Leo would start; the decision would hinge on how Leo trains and recovers at the National Stadium before kickoff. The topic dominated every pre-match briefing, underscoring the weight of making the right call for the team’s balance and attacking threat.
During the press conference ahead of the trip to the Inca Country, Leo’s status was the central question. The world champion coach delivered a straightforward message: “Leo is doing well, he has trained, if he is doing well he will play, that is what we all want.” He added that “tomorrow we will make the decision.”
When pressed further, Scaloni explained the need for a clear conversation with Leo to assess his condition and how many more minutes he can contribute. If the evaluation is positive, the coach hinted at a favorable outlook in terms of his impact on the field and the team’s strategic approach. This careful, player-centered decision-making reflects the careful planning behind Argentina’s evolving lineup as they navigate the post-Messi era.
In the opening qualifier match when Argentina hosted Ecuador, Leo faced an overload that limited his playing time to two matches with Inter Miami in the preceding month. Against Paraguay, he came on as a substitute in the 53rd minute, demonstrating his readiness to make an impact off the bench and potentially from the start if conditions permit. The coaching staff will weigh not only physical readiness but also tactical harmony with teammates, ensuring the team maintains its rhythm and offensive options as they pursue qualification results.
Overall, the discussions around Leo center on maintaining a balance between experience and energy, between safeguarding the player’s long-term health and maximizing his contribution to a squad still building its identity without Messi. The decision will likely reflect a practical assessment of form, minutes, and the specific tactical needs of each upcoming match, with the goal of keeping Argentina competitive at the highest level while honoring the legacy of a golden generation.
Note: all perspectives reflect statements and plans as reported in contemporary football coverage, with attribution to the outlets reporting on the team’s preparations and coaching decisions.