The defending champions head into their final group-stage fixture of the World Cup in strong form, as they face Jordan on Saturday, June 27.
Lionel Messi’s side is guaranteed to finish top of the group regardless of the result at Dallas Stadium in Texas, allowing them to approach the game with little pressure ahead of the next stage.
However, in what may be disappointing news for Argentina and Messi fans, the 39-year-old is not included in the starting XI against Jordan.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that La Pulga will begin the final group-stage match on the bench.
The decision does not appear to be related to any injury concern, as the coach made no mention of such an issue.
Instead, it seems more like a tactical choice, using a low-stakes match to rotate the squad and test depth by handing opportunities to youngsters such as Giuliano Simeone and Nico Paz.
Messi is likely to be introduced later in the second half, mainly to give him some game rhythm ahead of the Round of 32 while also ensuring he gets a balanced rest.
