Why Is Messi Not Starting Against Mauritania?
Messi Will Begin on the Bench
As expected, Lionel Messi will not be in the starting lineup against Mauritania at La Bombonera today. The Argentine captain will begin the match on the bench and is expected to see minutes in the second half.
Lionel Scaloni is looking to manage his workload due to the demands he has faced with Inter Miami. The goal is to avoid any injury and ensure he is in optimal condition for the next friendly against Zambia, where he is likely to start.
The decision is logical: Argentina needs Messi at 100% ahead of the World Cup. Any overload or injury would be one of the worst possible scenarios for the reigning champions as they aim to defend their title.
Managing Fitness and Testing Alternatives
Messi has logged heavy minutes at the start of the MLS season, although he missed the match against Charlotte to rest. He returned against New York City, where he scored a goal and played the full 90 minutes.
At this stage of his career, recovery is no longer the same, which is why Scaloni prefers to manage his minutes and allow him to gradually adapt to the team’s rhythm. His last match was on the 22nd of this month, so he has not had ideal rest. Although he has trained normally with the Argentina national team, the coaching staff does not want to take any risks, especially with their star player.
Additionally, this situation allows Scaloni to test tactical variations and evaluate other options in case Messi is unavailable at any point. Having a backup plan is always essential.
The idea is for Messi to get minutes in the second half against Mauritania and slowly build rhythm. With the World Cup just days away, the number 10 is the player who can make the difference as Argentina looks to secure its fourth star. But for that to happen, he must be in peak physical condition.
