Lionel Scaloni on the absence of Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria: “We will try to keep up the level”

The coach of the Argentine national team, Lionel Scaloniassured this afternoon that for the crossing before Chilifor the seventh date of the Eliminatory rounds heading to World Cup 2026hopes that his team “keep maintaining the level” that in the America’s Cup won.

“We are in an unbeatable position, which is leading, but this September date always has its peculiarities, players who have changed teams, little experience”start Scaloni at a press conference.

“We will try to keep up the level, to keep the team on the path we are on and to face the matches of this double date in the best way possible”added the world champion coach and two-time American champion.

Scaloni’s phrase about Messi’s vacant 10

Regarding the numbers 10 and 11, which are vacant due to the absence of both players, the coach did not beat around the bush and said: “The number 10 has been worn by Ángel Correa and it has been worn by other players due to Leo’s absence. It is not a problem, the number 10 has an owner. The number 11 is currently unowned, and we have an idea of ​​who might be the one to wear it. We will see if he is receptive and hopefully he will want to wear it. It is a shirt that we hold dear.”

The possible new captain

“It’s important that the player who wears the armband is one that represents the team. We have a lot of players who do that. It will depend on the team that goes out to play tomorrow,” said Scaloni in the absence of Messi.

The tribute to Di Maria

“The tribute is well deserved. He deserved a tribute with his people in Argentina. I think he was one of the best footballers in history, he left an indelible legacy,” said Scaloni.

“The initial idea was for Di María to play, but not for 11 minutes: for him to play against Chile like a normal match. “The initial idea was for Di María to play, but not for 11 minutes: for him to play against Chile like a normal match.

Scaloni analyzed Chile

“Chile is a team that plays good football, as their coach instills. They are going through a period of change. Ricardo has always had very good words for us, and he radiates calm. Chile has always been difficult and will be tomorrow. We will face the match in the best way possible,” said Scaloni.

Scaloni and his time with the Argentine National Team

“I’m not one to analyse the cycle. It’s a very sweet moment, which five years ago nobody would have thought possible. The important thing is that things can be achieved and that’s what we’re taking away from it. There will surely be difficult times and we have to be prepared to get up and try again,” he concluded.