---
title: "Scaloni Holds Up Argentina's World Cup Roster Over Balerdi Injury"
description: "Coach Lionel Scaloni delays the final squad as Leo Balerdi's injury sparks speculation on his replacement before the deadline."
url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/el-detalle-en-el-reglamento-del-mundial-que-abri-especulaci-faf5c07e
published: 2026-06-08T19:22:24.825+00:00
updated: 2026-06-08T19:22:24.825+00:00
author: "Kostadin Stamboliev"
publisher: "Pineido"
site: "Sportopod"
language: en
topics: ["hockey"]
---

# Scaloni Holds Up Argentina's World Cup Roster Over Balerdi Injury

> Coach Lionel Scaloni delays the final squad as Leo Balerdi's injury sparks speculation on his replacement before the deadline.

Argentina’s World Cup roster hangs in the balance as coach Lionel Scaloni has yet to name a replacement for the left‑back Leo Balerdi, whose injury was confirmed last week.

Scaloni has repeatedly told the press he is weighing options, citing tactical flexibility and the need to lock in a balanced squad before FIFA’s submission deadline on June 21.

The delay gives the coaching staff time to assess domestic league standouts and overseas veterans alike.

Meanwhile, rival nations have already filed their lists, and pundits are filling the void with names ranging from seasoned defender Nahuel Molina to promising youngster Gonzalo Montiel.

The lack of a definitive answer fuels speculation across social media and inside the locker room.

If Scaloni’s final pick deviates from the expected line‑up, it could reshape Argentina’s defensive structure, affect chemistry, and signal a strategic pivot ahead of the tournament’s opening matches.

What’s next: Scaloni is expected to submit the 26‑man squad by the June 21 deadline, after which any late injury will trigger a last‑minute swap under FIFA’s regulations.

## Why this matters

The uncertainty surrounding Argentina’s World Cup squad list has ignited a firestorm of speculation, with fans and analysts alike dissecting every possible replacement for the injured Leo Balerdi. As the June 21 FIFA deadline looms, the decision will not only determine the defensive backbone of a title‑contending side but also set the tone for team cohesion and tactical direction heading into the tournament’s opening stages.

## Frequently asked

### When is the deadline for Argentina’s World Cup squad?

FIFA requires each nation to submit a 26‑man roster by 5 p.m. local time on June 21, 2026. After that, only injury‑related replacements are allowed, and they must be approved by the tournament’s medical committee.

### Which players are being mentioned as possible replacements for Balerdi?

Analysts have highlighted veteran defender Nahuel Molina, who has been a regular starter at River Plate, and young right‑back Gonzalo Montiel, who impressed at Sevilla, as the most plausible options for the left‑back slot.

### How could the delayed decision affect Argentina’s preparation?

The uncertainty hampers tactical drills, forces the coaching staff to rehearse multiple defensive configurations, and may disrupt player chemistry, especially if the final call arrives close to the tournament’s opening match.

## Sources & Citations

- [El detalle en el reglamento del Mundial que abrió especulaciones sobre los cambios en la lista de la selección argentina](https://www.infobae.com/deportes/2026/06/08/el-detalle-en-el-reglamento-del-mundial-que-abrio-especulaciones-sobre-los-cambios-en-la-lista-de-la-seleccion-argentina/) — GNews.io (2026-06-08)

---

Cite: Scaloni Holds Up Argentina's World Cup Roster Over Balerdi Injury. Sportopod, 2026-06-08. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/el-detalle-en-el-reglamento-del-mundial-que-abri-especulaci-faf5c07e