Argentina's Balerdi Ruled Out of World Cup With Soleus Injury — Senesi Leading Replacement Candidate; Emiliano Martínez Remains Despite Fractured Finger

Argentina suffered a significant defensive blow on June 6 when centre-back Leonardo Balerdi was ruled out of the 2026 World Cup with a soleus muscle injury to his right leg, sustained during the squad's training camp. Coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed the exclusion and indicated that Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi is the leading candidate for the replacement slot under FIFA's medical exception rules, with a final decision expected shortly. The loss of Balerdi is an added defensive headache for Scaloni, who is already managing goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez's fractured ring finger on his right hand — sustained during the Europa League final with Aston Villa vs Freiburg. Martínez remains in the squad and is expected to play. Messi himself has been managing a left hamstring concern after a 'muscular overload' in late May but is expected to be available for Argentina's Group J opener vs Algeria on June 16 at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City. The defending champions remain pre-tournament title favorites despite the injury concerns, with 17 returners from the 2022 World Cup squad. 5 days to kickoff at Estadio Azteca.