THE The Argentina national team and Lionel Messi continue their preparation for the World Cup qualifying matches against Paraguay (Thursday October 12, 2023, KO 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.) and Peru. The Albiceleste will look to continue their perfect record after winning both their matches during the national team’s previous break.
However, a huge cloud of doubt surrounds the sideas is not yet known whether Lionel Messi will be fit or not play.
THE InterMiami the striker has not played even half a match for his club since his return from selection a month ago and his fitness has been a subject of debate, concern and frustration as his club saw the wheels fall off their ambitious project at the end of the season. miss it MLS playoffs.
“We will talk first to see if he can play or not”
Wednesday, before the match against Paraguay, Lionel Scaloni spoke at a press conference on the presence of Messi on the side, saying he still needs to talk to the player about his potential place in the team from the start of the match.
“We still have one training session left and it’s important for Leo. We think he looks good and we will talk about it before to see if he can play from the start or not. From there, the team can change, but I have to talk to him and above all it is important that he is well, and that we are convinced that he can play from the start. He looked good and from there we will see the rest of the team,” the coach explained.
Argentina’s possible starting XI against Paraguay
Through his quotes to the media, Scaloni gave hope that a starting team with Messi in the XI is a possibilityHowever, the Inter Miami player’s place in the team is not 100% guaranteed.
TyC Sports revealed that the possible starting XI for Argentina against Paraguay could be the following:
Argentina’s potential eleven against Paraguay:
G.K.: Emi Martinez
DEF: Molina/Montiel – Romero – Otamendi – Tagliafico/Acuña
MEDIUM: De Paul – Mac Allister – Enzo
ATT: Messi – Álvarez/Lautaro – Nico González
