Argentina national team head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed the core structure of his starting lineup ahead of Wednesday’s international friendly against Bolivia at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba, while addressing ongoing discussions regarding his long-term contract extension with the Asociación del Fútbol Argentino (AFA).
Starting Lineup Taking Shape in Córdoba
Speaking to reporters during a press conference at the Predio Lionel Andrés Messi, Scaloni outlined the final preparations for the squad’s upcoming fixture. The manager noted that while the primary tactical framework is established, players will be formally notified of their roles following the final training session on Tuesday afternoon.
“The team is more or less confirmed,” Scaloni stated during the media briefing. “We have training today, and the players do not know yet; we will tell them after the session.”
The fixture against Bolivia marks the opening encounter of a busy international window for the Albiceleste. Following Wednesday’s match in Córdoba, scheduled for 21:00 local time, Argentina will host Burkina Faso on Saturday, October 3, and Benín on Tuesday, October 6, both matches taking place at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The final fixture against Benín serves as the designated farewell match for captain Lionel Messi during this triple-header series.
Contract Negotiations and the Road to 2030
Beyond immediate tactical setups, Scaloni addressed widespread speculation surrounding his future as head coach. The manager had kept a low profile regarding his employment status following the final of the World Cup in North America against Spain. However, as the new international cycle begins, Scaloni confirmed that talks with AFA president Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia are progressing positively.
“The desire to continue with the national team is there,” Scaloni said. He acknowledged that his assessment required careful evaluation of sporting factors before making a definitive public announcement.
Recent reports indicate that the manager has largely agreed on terms to extend his stay, pointing toward a continuation of his tenure through the 2030 FIFA World Cup cycle. Last week, official channels of the AFA published photographs documenting an initial meeting between Tapia and Scaloni at the team’s training facility, confirming that contract discussions dominated the agenda.
“I met with him to talk, and there is good predisposition from both parties to continue,” the coach added.
Integrating Young Talent and Squad Depth
With a transitional phase underway across the national setup, Scaloni emphasized the importance of evaluating emerging players. The technical staff has actively monitored domestic and international prospects to bolster the team’s long-term foundation.
“We know the new kids, we have references, and we have been monitoring them,” Scaloni explained. “They show they want to be here and they have a lot of enthusiasm. We will give them the opportunity to play so they can contribute.”
Addressing the upcoming absence of Lionel Messi following the current international window, Scaloni expressed confidence in the squad’s collective identity. While acknowledging Messi’s unique standing in the sport, the coach highlighted the growth of younger members within the team.
“It is unquestionable that he is an indispensable player,” Scaloni said. “Luckily, in the matches where he was not present, the team has responded. We have young kids who can contribute. The identity is not going to change, which is to have the ball.”
Leadership Hierarchy and Squad Captains
With standard captains Lionel Messi and Nicolás Otamendi leading the hierarchy, Scaloni confirmed the subsequent leadership order within the squad. Cristian “Cuti” Romero steps into the primary leadership assignment during matches, followed by Emiliano Martínez as second captain and Lautaro Martínez as third.
Discussing Romero’s expanded responsibilities, Scaloni remarked, “The captain today, Cuti, in addition to being a great player, accepted the responsibility of the armband. He will have to demonstrate what it is like to wear the captaincy. His behavior—everyone will want to mimic him. We see that he can do it.”
Next Fixture and Schedule
The Argentine squad completed its final media-open training session on Tuesday, September 29, at 15:30 local time following the manager’s press conference. Wednesday’s friendly against Bolivia kicks off at 21:00 UTC-3 at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes.
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