The defending champions enter the World Cup with a cohesive squad, though physical fitness is a concern following a grueling club season and several late-stage injuries. If health permits, the manager intends to utilize much of the championship-winning Qatar squad, though Ángel Di María is no longer part of the national team.
Lionel Scaloni intends to maintain a 4-3-3 formation, utilizing two center-backs, attacking full-backs, and dynamic, precise midfielders. Lionel Messi continues to lead the attack, supported by Julián Alvarez and potential breakout star Thiago Almada. While nearly two-thirds of the 2022 roster remains, the team now integrates young talent like Nico Paz, currently performing well at Como, alongside established stars such as Lautaro Martínez, who hopes to be in better physical shape than he was during the previous tournament.
Scaloni acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming competition, noting that preparation is key because winning every match is impossible. Despite confidence in his group, the coach recognizes the challenge of duplicating the success of his eight-year tenure, which has produced three major trophies. He noted that the national shirt carries high expectations from fans who demand quality football, while acknowledging that the best team does not always emerge victorious.
Argentina's qualification process was straightforward, as they topped the Conmebol group nine points ahead of Ecuador and achieved their first-ever qualifying victory in Brazil.
Regarding the leadership, Lionel Scaloni has become Argentina's most successful manager, winning a World Cup and two Copa América titles. Although he lacks the historical prestige of figures like Carlos Bilardo or César Luis Menotti, his humility and rapport with players have made him a beloved figure. After assisting Jorge Sampaoli in 2018, he was given a chance by federation president Claudio Tapia to manage friendlies before becoming head coach despite his lack of prior experience. Scaloni has since built a resilient team, secured Messi's trust, and is now managing a transition. He resides in Mallorca with his family and frequently visits his hometown of Pujato in Santa Fe.
The team's undisputed star and the world's best player remains Lionel Messi.
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