Messi Leads Argentina US Tour; Scaloni Adds Three Young Stars
Oct, 15 2025
When Lionel Andrés Messi, the 37‑year‑old captain of the Argentine national side, was confirmed to lead the squad for a two‑match U.S. friendly series, the football world took notice. The announcement came from Lionel Sebastián Scaloni, head coach of Argentina Football Association (AFA), on September 25, 2024. It included three unexpected call‑ups – midfielder Enzo Fernández of Chelsea, forward Thiago Almada from Boca Juniors, and defender Nehuén Pérez of Almería – setting the stage for a tour that doubles as preparation for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Why the U.S. Tour Matters for Argentina
The October fixtures – October 16 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, against Canada, and October 19 at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta versus Jamaica – are more than just exhibition games. They offer Scaloni a live laboratory to blend veteran leadership with fresh talent ahead of a grueling CONMEBOL schedule that runs through September 2025.
Scaloni told TyC Sports on September 10 that his "only three doubts" involve the backup goalkeeper spot and two defensive midfield positions. By slotting Fernández, Almada and Pérez into the squad, he’s essentially answering those worries while giving the youngsters a chance to gel with Messi on the pitch.
Surprise Selections: Who Are the New Faces?
Enzo Fernández has been a revelation at Chelsea since his 2023 move from River Plate. The 23‑year‑old’s late goal against Venezuela on September 4 helped Argentina secure a 3‑1 win, proving he can deliver under pressure.
Thiago Almada, also 23, broke onto the senior team in 2023 after dazzling in Boca Juniors’ attack. His creative spark was on display during the September 9 victory over Ecuador, where he assisted a key pass that set up the winning goal.
Defender Nehuén Pérez, plying his trade with UD Almería, brings a blend of aerial strength and composure on the ball. Though he missed the recent qualifiers due to a minor injury, the coach believes his inclusion now will smooth the transition into the defensive line‑up for the 2026 campaign.
Match Logistics and Broadcast Reach
The fixtures are under the umbrella of a partnership with the U.S. Soccer Federation, headquartered in Chicago. Both games will be streamed in Spanish on ViX and televised in English on FOX Sports, with advertising slots priced at $185,000 for the New Jersey match and $155,000 for Atlanta, according to the Sports Business Journal.
Logistically, AFA allocated ARS 18.7 million (≈ $19,500 USD) for charter flights aboard an Aerolíneas Argentinas Boeing 787‑9, accommodations at The St. Regis New York for the New Jersey camp, and The Whitley in Atlanta for the Georgia leg. The attention to detail mirrors the federation’s broader plan to keep the squad comfortable ahead of the upcoming November qualifiers against Peru and Bolivia.
Strategic Implications for the 2026 World Cup
Argentina currently tops the CONMEBOL standings with 22 points from nine matches, edging out Uruguay (21) and Colombia (19). With the United States, Canada and Mexico slated to co‑host the 2026 tournament, a strong showing in the U.S. friendlies could boost the team’s confidence ahead of crucial away qualifiers in November.
Scaloni’s decision to blend Messi with younger players reflects a dual focus: capitalising on Messi’s still‑potent goal‑scoring instincts while grooming a post‑Messi core. As Messi affirmed at Inter Miami’s training facility on August 30, “I will be available for every qualifier until the World Cup in 2026,” the coach can now plan around a clear, if demanding, timeline.
Expert Reactions and Fan Sentiment
Tim Spiers, lead analyst at World Soccer Talk, called the call‑ups "a bold statement of intent" and noted that integrating domestic league talent like Almada could pay dividends closer to the World Cup, especially if injuries limit Messi’s minutes.
On social media, Argentine fans expressed a mix of excitement and skepticism. While many celebrated the return of Fernández and welcomed Pérez’s defensive depth, a vocal minority questioned whether Almada’s inclusion meant sidelining more experienced midfield options such as Rodrigo de Paul.
Regardless of the debate, the matches will provide a valuable data set for the coaching staff. The ability to observe how the trio meshes with Messi’s playmaking will likely influence the final 23‑player World Cup roster submitted by May 1, 2026.
What’s Next After the U.S. Tour?
Argentina’s next competitive fixtures arrive in November: a home showdown with Peru on the 15th in Buenos Aires and an away clash with Bolivia on the 19th in La Paz. Both games are pivotal for securing a top‑six finish in the CONMEBOL round‑robin, guaranteeing direct qualification.
Scaloni hinted that the performances in New Jersey and Atlanta will shape his selections for those matches. “If the youngsters show they can handle the pressure, they’ll earn their spot,” he said in a post‑tour interview with ESPN Latin America.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Scaloni choose Enzo Fernández, Thiago Almada and Nehuén Pérez for the U.S. tour?
Scaloni aimed to test younger players who have already contributed in recent qualifiers. Fernández scored against Venezuela, Almada provided crucial creativity versus Ecuador, and Pérez offers defensive depth as Argentina prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
How will the friendly matches affect Argentina’s World Cup qualification strategy?
The games serve as a rehearsal for integrating new talent while keeping Messi fit. Positive performances can solidify the younger cohort’s roles, giving Scaloni more flexibility for the crucial November qualifiers that determine direct World Cup entry.
What are the broadcasting arrangements for the matches?
The New Jersey match will air in Spanish on ViX and in English on FOX Sports, with a 30‑second ad slot costing $185,000. The Atlanta match follows a similar split, with a $155,000 rate for U.S. advertisers.
Will Messi’s participation until 2026 affect squad selection?
Messi’s commitment ensures he remains a central figure, allowing Scaloni to build around his experience. However, the coach is already planning for a post‑Messi era, so the tour is a chance to balance veteran influence with emerging talent.
What financial resources did AFA allocate for the tour?
AFA earmarked ARS 18.7 million (about $19,500 USD) for charter flights, hotel stays at The St. Regis New York and The Whitley Atlanta, and other logistical expenses, reflecting a modest yet focused investment in preparation.