Argentina have suffered an unexpected setback ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defender Leonardo Balerdi was ruled out through injury, forcing Lionel Scaloni to look for a replacement before the tournament begins.

The Olympique de Marseille center back had been dealing with muscular discomfort in recent weeks and suffered a setback during Argentina's training camp in Texas.

Balerdi ruled out of the World Cup

The Argentine Football Association confirmed the defender's withdrawal from the squad.

"Defender Leonardo Balerdi suffered a muscle injury in the soleus of his right leg and will not be part of the squad that will compete at the World Cup," the AFA announced.

The coaching staff decided not to take any risks as Argentina continues its preparations for the tournament.

Five defenders in contention

Balerdi's replacement will come from Argentina's preliminary 55-player list submitted earlier this year.

The center backs under consideration include:

• Marcos Senesi (Bournemouth)
• Lucas Martínez Quarta (River Plate)
• Germán Pezzella (River Plate)
• Zaid Romero (Getafe)
• Lautaro Di Lollo (Boca Juniors)

A final decision is expected after Argentina's friendly against Honduras and once the coaching staff completes its evaluation of the squad.

Argentina monitoring several fitness situations

Balerdi's injury comes while Scaloni continues to monitor the condition of several players.

Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel and Nicolás Paz remain on individualized training programs, while Emiliano Martínez, Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez continue their recovery work.

Following the Honduras match, Argentina will remain in Texas before traveling to Alabama for a final warm-up game against Iceland.

The reigning world champions will open their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Algeria on June 16 in Group J, which also includes Austria and Jordan.

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