Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has hinted that the team’s World Cup squad could still see another change, stressing that the squad’s overall condition is not fully at 100%. The comment comes amid ongoing concerns tied to Leonardo Balerdi’s injury, which has already raised questions about whether Argentina will need to adjust its selection beyond the initial replacement.
Scaloni’s message was direct but cautious, reflecting the uncertainty typical of tournament preparations. Speaking in the context of squad decisions and player availability, the coach emphasized that Argentina are not fully fit across the board and that the next possible revision may not be limited to just one position. While much of the immediate attention has focused on the center-back role—largely due to Balerdi’s injury—Scaloni suggested that the solution may require broader consideration.
In his remarks, Scaloni indicated that Argentina may need reinforcements that go beyond simply filling a vacancy in defense. He explained that the team is not operating at full strength with all players, which opens the door to potential adjustments based on fitness, form, and readiness. In particular, he said it might not be only a center-back that Argentina would look to add, underlining that the coaching staff’s assessment extends throughout the squad rather than targeting a single issue.
This approach signals that Scaloni and his staff are closely monitoring players’ recovery and readiness levels. Even if the most visible problem appears to be related to the defensive line, the coach’s comments imply that other areas could also be under review. Such statements often come as teams balance the risks of including players who are close to match-fit but not fully ready, especially in a tournament environment where a single absence can disrupt tactical planning.
Alongside these indications of possible change, Scaloni also referenced player availability as part of Argentina’s options. Nico Paz is described as available and potentially capable of contributing, and Scaloni’s mention suggests that the squad could incorporate him if the coaching staff decides that his inclusion best matches the team’s needs. His availability matters not only in terms of personnel but also in terms of tactical flexibility, since selections for tournaments are frequently shaped by the kinds of roles a player can cover during different phases of matches.
The mention that Paz could have played highlights how tournament squads are sometimes adjusted not simply to replace an injured player, but to add depth that better supports the team’s overall game plan. When a coach says a player is available and could have featured, it implies the player is being considered as a legitimate option—not merely a name on a list. This is particularly relevant if Argentina determine that more than one adjustment is required.
The overall tone of Scaloni’s comments combines concern with contingency planning. Argentina’s coaching staff appears prepared to respond quickly if fitness issues persist or if assessments during training reveal additional limitations. Scaloni’s suggestion that another change might occur reflects the reality that tournament squads can evolve up to key deadlines, especially when injuries or recovery setbacks emerge late.
The reference to a possible change beyond the center-back position also suggests that Argentina may be examining how their squad balances defensive solidity with other tactical needs. By signaling openness to restructuring, Scaloni is effectively communicating to fans and stakeholders that Argentina are not locked into a fixed final form and that selection decisions will remain fluid until the team is confident in its readiness.
For supporters, the implications are significant: a squad change can affect starting plans, bench options, and overall team chemistry. However, Scaloni’s comments also demonstrate a proactive approach—prioritizing readiness and the ability to compete at the highest level rather than clinging to initial selections.
In summary, Lionel Scaloni has indicated that Argentina may undergo another adjustment to their World Cup list beyond replacing Leonardo Balerdi due to injury. The coach emphasized that Argentina are not at full fitness across all players, meaning the next change might not only involve a center-back. Scaloni also pointed to Nico Paz as available and potentially able to play, suggesting he could be part of the solution depending on the final fitness assessment. Source: AlpacaAurelius.
All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷: 🚨 BREAKING: Lionel Scaloni says that there could be another change in the World Cup list other than Leonardo Balerdi’s injury ⚠️‼️ “We’re not at 100% with all of our players. It might not be just a centre-back that we need to add.” “Nico Paz is available and could have played. #breaking
— @AlbicelesteTalk May 1, 2026
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