Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has described the upcoming period for the national team as “an important, exciting period” as he aims to provide opportunities for younger players to adapt to the team’s style of play. The statement was made ahead of Argentina’s series of home friendlies scheduled between September 21 and October 6.
Scaloni, who has been in charge since 2018, guided Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America titles. The team finished as runners-up to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Speaking to MiGu and quoted by Goal.com, Scaloni indicated that a new era is beginning as young players seek entry into the senior squad. He emphasised that age is not a factor in selection, with form and commitment being paramount. The focus will be on ensuring a smooth transition while preserving Argentina’s tactical identity.
“Logically, we will try, whether we are there or not. That is not the important thing. They truly deserve it, that is our intention in the upcoming matches: to give young players the opportunity to adapt to our style of play. Now an important, exciting period begins,” he said.
Reflecting on the challenges of maintaining team motivation following the 2024 Copa America triumph in the United States, Scaloni acknowledged the difficulty of sustaining trophy-winning cycles but expressed confidence in his squad.
He also stressed the importance of a positive relationship between the fans and the team. “After the 2024 Copa America, I also had a feeling that things were going to be tough,” Scaloni explained. “It is difficult to try (repeating trophy-rich runs), I am not saying it will be easy. As a coach, as the leader of the group, you have to know that it’s going to be difficult,” he added.
Argentina will play Bolivia at the Mario Alberto Kempes stadium in Córdoba on September 30. The team’s other fixtures will take place at River Plate’s stadium, with matches against Burkina Faso on October 3 and Benin on October 6.
Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso are expected to feature in the final friendly on October 6, with Messi set to have the opportunity to bid farewell to international football on home soil.
