Argentina’s starting lineup against Peru at Copa America 2024 will feature plenty of new faces, including Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, as Lionel Messi and co. rest before the quarter-finals.
After Argentina defeated Chile 1-0 on Tuesday night, the reigning Copa America champions qualified for the quarter-finals, making their final Group A fixture against Peru nothing more than a formality. Instead of risking injuries or suspensions ahead of the first knockout match, Lionel Scaloni is giving many of his traditional starters the night off.
Most notably, Lionel Messi will not play against Peru. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner needed treatment to his groin area in the first half against Chile and is said to be dealing with a minor injury. As Argentina’s captain sits out, young players will get the chance to shine at Copa America 2024.
Here’s what Argentina’s starting XI could look like against Peru on June 29.
GK: Franco Armani – Armani will likely make his 20th international cap against Peru as Lionel Scaloni gives Emiliano Martinez a rest before the quarter-finals.
RB: Gonzalo Montiel – Molina might have the starting right-back job, but Montiel will get to return to the right flank where he helped Argentina win their 15th Copa America title in 2021.
CB: Nicolás Otamendi – Although Otamendi lost his long-time starting spot alongside Romero now that Lisandro Martinez’s is fully fit, the center-back will start on Saturday for what could be the first and last time this tournament.
CB: German Pezzella – Pezzella adds depth to Argentina’s defense at Copa America 2024, and the Real Betis man will finally get a chance to start for his country this year.
LB: Nicolás Tagliafico – Acuna is suffering from minor muscle discomfort, so Tagliafico will get his second straight start at left-back.
CM: Valentin Carboni – Carboni received his first senior call-up to the national squad in March 2022, and the 19-year-old could very well get his third international cap after an impressive season for Monza in Serie A.
CM: Alexis Mac Allister – Mac Allister brings an experienced composure to an otherwise untested midfield against Peru. Should Scaloni want to give Enzo Fernandez more time on the pitch, though, the Liverpool midfielder could be another one of Argentina’s rested players on Saturday.
CM: Exequiel Palacios – Fresh off winning the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen, Palacios…
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