Scaloni Confirms messi will Miss Ecuador Clash, Hints at Future World Cup Squad Core
Guayaquil, Ecuador – Argentina will face Ecuador Tuesday without Lionel Messi, head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed in a pre-match press conference. The decision, reached mutually between messi and Scaloni, aims to allow the superstar forward to rest and focus on Inter Miami’s MLS championship push.
Despite Messi’s absence, Scaloni emphasized a positive outlook, stating, “What he decides will be fine, you have to leave it alone.” He dismissed further speculation about Messi’s long-term commitment to the national team, deferring to the player’s own pronouncements.The focus now shifts to Tuesday’s crucial World Cup qualifier in Guayaquil. Scaloni announced Nicolás Otamendi will captain the side, with Lautaro Martínez leading the attack. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Ecuador, praising their recent form under coach Félix Sánchez Bas.
“We are playing a selection that has been doing things very well in recent years… It is one of the best selections in the world and will make things challenging for any opponent,” Scaloni stated. “It is a good test.”
Squad Rotation and Future Planning
Scaloni indicated he will utilize the match to evaluate players, making at least one change beyond those necessitated by Messi and Cuti Romero’s absences. “Those who played less deserve to play and that is the idea,” he explained, acknowledging the inherent “injustice” of limited playing time while stressing the importance of team balance.
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, Scaloni revealed a core group of players is already firmly established. “There are a number of players who are always and will not come out of there,” he said, while cautioning against prematurely defining the entire squad. He anticipates finalizing the list as the tournament approaches.
November’s friendlies will see Argentina face
