Scaloni Hints at Argentina Line-up Changes

Argentina have completed their final training session ahead of the FIFA World Cup final, with head coach Lionel Scaloni offering several subtle clues about his likely starting line-up. The session also gave the reigning world champions a slight preparation advantage over Spain, whose outdoor training was cancelled because of severe weather.

The squad trained on Saturday afternoon at the Red Bulls Performance Centre in New Jersey, where they made their final on-field preparations before the championship match. Heavy rain and strong winds delayed the start of the session, forcing the players to remain indoors and spend time in the gym before eventually taking to the pitch once conditions improved.

Spain, managed by Luis de la Fuente, were unable to complete a similar outdoor session. Their coaching staff cancelled field training after following the United States’ storm safety protocol, meaning the Spanish players missed their final opportunity to rehearse tactical drills on the pitch before the final.

Argentina, however, were able to train despite the rain once the weather became manageable. That allowed Scaloni and his coaching staff to work through their planned exercises, giving the team valuable time to fine-tune tactical details before one of the most important matches of the tournament.

Saturday’s session differed from Friday’s preparations. The opening 15 minutes were made accessible to members of the media, although the players reached the training pitch later than originally scheduled after beginning the day inside the gym. Once the public portion concluded, the coaching staff continued with closed-door tactical work.

One of the most closely watched moments came during Scaloni’s customary distribution of 13 training bibs, a routine often viewed as an indication of the players under consideration for the starting XI. This time, Gonzalo Montiel received a bib in place of Nahuel Molina, prompting speculation that the right-back position could change for the final. While the move has fuelled discussion, the coaching staff have not confirmed whether Montiel will start against Spain.

There were also encouraging signs for Giovani Lo Celso and Rodrigo De Paul, both of whom received training bibs alongside the ten players who started Argentina’s previous match against England. Their inclusion suggests they remain strong candidates for the starting line-up.

De Paul, currently with Inter Miami, is reportedly competing with Giuliano Simeone for a place in midfield. Lo Celso, who plays for Real Betis, could also replace Leandro Paredes if the midfielder is deemed not fully fit in time for the final.

Scaloni had already voiced frustration over the team’s preparation schedule following Friday’s training session. The Argentina coach said his side had been forced to train at an inconvenient time because of media commitments, leaving limited opportunity to carry out the tactical work the coaching staff had planned.

With the final now approaching, Argentina appear to have completed their preparations in full despite difficult weather conditions. The final training session has inevitably sparked debate over Scaloni’s selection plans, but the definitive answer will only come when the team sheet is released before kick-off.