Scaloni defends Messi’s replacement

Lionel Scaloniselector Argentinaconfirmed this Sunday that he decided to have Messi only in the second half of the friendly win 1-0 against Ecuador in Chicago to take care of him and try to bring him to the Copa América in “optimal conditions”, like other teammates.

“Sometimes there’s no need to take risks, not just him (Messi). Otamendi didn’t play either, Fideo also played his minutes, Enzo Fernández has the minutes we think he deserves. It’s about taking care of them and making sure they come in the best conditions,” Scaloni said at Soldier Field’s postgame press conference.

Scaloni also reported that it will take until after the friendly with Guatemala on June 14 to announce the final list for the Copa América. “There are only a few days left to make the final list and we will do it based on what we believe is best for the team,” he assured. “We’ll give the list after the Guatemala game. There’s no point in making the cut without waiting for that game. It’s a setback for the boys to be left out but it is what it is,” He added.

He reckoned that playing against a tough rival like Ecuador was good for the Albiceleste to get into a rhythm and praised his players for staying hungry for victory. “These kids have competition in their blood. Sometimes it turns out well, sometimes it doesn’t, but the good thing about it is there’s always something to play for,” he said.

Finally, he enjoyed the minutes played by Enzo Fernández, who is getting back into his rhythm after a groin problem. “We are happy that he had minutes. An operation is always risky. In his case we are happy because he has been training. Logically he is a bit lacking in football,” he said.

Argentina won 1-0 on Sunday against Ecuador with a goal from Ángel Di María in the 40th minute.