14/06/2026 04:59 - Deportes
Director técnico de fútbol con vestimenta deportiva observando atentamente el campo de juego durante una práctica, jugadores entrenando en el fondo, estadio moderno con césped verde, atmósfera de concentración profesional
Lionel Scaloni, the mastermind behind Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph and 2024 Copa America victory, has everything prepared for the team's World Cup 2026 debut—but one question keeps analysts and fans guessing: Will he field a back three or back four?
The reigning world champions will debut on Tuesday, June 16 at 22:00 Argentina time (UTC-3) against Algeria at the Kansas City Stadium, and Scaloni might surprise everyone with an unexpected formation choice.
The traditional formation Scaloni tested includes:
A more attacking alternative featuring:
Nicolás Tagliafico, Argentina's regular starting left-back, suffered a Grade 1 tear in his left soleus muscle (the muscle beneath the calf) and will miss the first two group-stage matches. Tagliafico had been a consistent starter throughout Scaloni's tenure, but the injury forces a defensive reshuffle.
According to medical reports, his return is expected by Saturday, June 27 against Jordan—the final Group J match—or he could be preserved for the knockout stage if Argentina advances.
Also confirmed: Leonardo Balerdi has been dropped from the squad, replaced by Marcos Senesi, who arrived in Kansas City to join the team.
The Argentine coach has developed special trust in Nicolás González, the Fiorentina winger whom he has even tested as a left wing-back in training. The player's experience performing defensive duties makes him a crucial piece if Scaloni opts for the back-three system.
González is one of Scaloni's favorite players due to his tactical commitment, relentless pressing, and ability to adapt to various positions.
Argentina will face Algeria, an African national team with a squad valued at USD 296.6 million (compared to Argentina's USD 924.5 million).
Algeria's most valuable player is Ibrahim Maza (USD 53 million), while their captain Riyad Mahrez—the former Manchester City star now playing in Saudi Arabia—is valued at USD 5.8 million.
In other squad news, Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez—Argentina's World Cup-winning goalkeeper and two-time FIFA Best Goalkeeper award recipient—trained with gloves for the first time following a fracture in his right ring finger. The keeper suffered the injury on May 20 during the Europa League final with Aston Villa against Freiburg. An MRI confirmed favorable bone healing, making him available for the debut.
Source: Telefe
Alfredo S. Quiroga
Conspiraciones