Lionel Scaloni, the coach of Argentina, stated that in order to maintain Messi in peak condition for the Copa América, he chose to have him play just in the second half of their 1-0 victory over Ecuador in a friendly in Chicago.
It’s not always necessary to take chances, and not only with him (Messi). Enzo Fernández played as much as we felt was appropriate, Fideo (Di María) received his minutes, and Otamendi did not play at all. “It’s about making sure they’re in top condition and taking care of them,” Scaloni stated at Soldier Field’s press conference following the game.
Additionally, Scaloni stated that he would not reveal the final Copa América squad until after the friendly against Guatemala on June 14.
“We’ll finalize the list in the next few days, and it will be based on what we believe is best for the team,” he stated.
“We’ll release the list following the Guatemalan match. It would be useless to announce it prior to that contest. Although it is regrettable for the guys who will be excluded, things cannot be changed,” he continued.
Playing against a formidable opponent like Ecuador, in his opinion, helped the team settle into a groove. He also gave his teammates credit for never losing their will for victory.
These people are naturally competitive. There’s always something to play for, he remarked, even though things don’t always go as planned.
Ultimately, he expressed satisfaction with Enzo Fernández’s usage of the ball as he recovered from a groin injury.
“We’re glad he was given some time. There is always danger involved with surgery. We’re happy that he’s been training in this instance. He concluded by saying, “Of course, he’s still a little short on match fitness.
