Scaloni’s Calm Blueprint: Messi, a Young Star at Real Madrid, and Argentina’s 2026 Roadmap
10 October 2025
Scaloni’s preview of Argentina’s next steps
Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni spoke candidly about the main topics shaping the conversation ahead of the Venezuela friendly at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. He touched on the future of Franco Mastantonu, the status of captain Lionel Messi, and the team’s preparations for the road to the 2026 World Cup, while also paying tribute to the late Miguel Angel Russo.
Scaloni began by praising Mastantonu’s breakout season after his move to Real Madrid, noting how the Spaniards’ coach Xabi Alonso has handled the youngster with patience. He emphasized that Madrid knows how to pace his minutes and guide his development, a philosophy he intends to mirror with the national team.
Regarding Mastantonu’s involvement in Venezuela or Puerto Rico friendlies, Scaloni said the decision hasn’t been finalised yet. “If we think he should play, he will,” he stated, adding that the 18-year-old is in good form and eager to contribute, provided we manage expectations accordingly.
On Messi, Scaloni confirmed the captain had returned to training after a brief muscular discomfort and could feature, though nothing was decided yet. He stressed that the purpose of these friendlies is to test fresh options while remaining respectful of the opposition.
He also discussed Emiliano Martinez, who has been back in full training and is ready for selection, and confirmed that Marcos Acuña will not be risked until fully fit. The goalkeeper’s readiness underscored the broader theme: balance between risk and reward when integrating new faces into the squad.
Asked about the forthcoming World Cup 2026 squad, Scaloni reaffirmed that the list would not be announced at the last moment. There are more than 26 players in the mix, which he described as a positive sign of depth and quality. The aim of these friendlies, he said, is to validate new players and strengthen a cohesive unit with experienced players guiding the way.
As Argentina balances seasoned stars like Messi with a promising group of youngsters, Scaloni highlighted the need to maintain harmony and a consistent playing style that has defined the team in recent years. He noted that continuing success will require calm, hard work, and mutual respect across generations.
In closing, Scaloni paid tribute to Miguel Angel Russo, describing him as a figure whose influence on Argentine football will endure. The team will carry his memory as they navigate a demanding pre-World Cup year and prepare for a busy schedule ahead.
Ultimately, Argentina appears set to approach the Venezuela and Puerto Rico fixtures with a blend of stability and ambition, preserving the balance between experience and youth as they chart a course toward 2026. The coach’s message was clear: build gradually, trust the process, and let the players earn their spots on the big stage.
Punchlines: If patience were a formation, Scaloni would field it with a full bench. And if World Cup glory were a subscription, Argentina would be on the premium plan.
