Argentina are entering a crucial period in their road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Next month, they will compete for a title when they face Spain in the Finalissima, the tournament that brings together the champions of Europe and South America. In this context, a key teammate of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a> could be sidelined due to injury.



“Giovani Lo Celso suffers a myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh,” Real Betis reported on Tuesday in a <a href="https://en.realbetisbalompie.es/news/latest_news/medical-report-on-giovani-lo-celso-32149">statement published on their official website</a>. “The Argentine player has suffered a moderate proximal myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh as a result of an accidental collision during the match against PAOK.”



The injury occurred nearly two weeks ago during a UEFA Europa League match on January 22 in Greece. Initially, the expectation was that the 29-year-old midfielder would miss just a couple of games before returning to action, but medical tests revealed a much more complex situation.



“His return to the squad will depend on how the injury progresses,” <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-betis">Betis</a> limited themselves to stating. However, reports suggest the timeline could be significantly longer. “Gio Lo Celso suffered a muscular injury that will take him at least a month to recover from,” Argentine insider Gaston Edul said on his X account.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Lo Celso has suffered a myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh. Get well soon, <a href="https://twitter.com/LoCelsoGiovani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LoCelsoGiovani</a>! 💚 ➡ <a href="https://t.co/puMi6QBXFV">https://t.co/puMi6QBXFV</a> <a href="https://t.co/khXsZTCmea">pic.twitter.com/khXsZTCmea</a>— Real Betis Balompié (@RealBetis_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealBetis_en/status/2018640063538876831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



“At Betis, they anticipated a possible absence of some duration for Lo Celso,” Diario AS reported, predicting an even more pessimistic timeline than the one shared by Edul: “His absence could last just over two months.”


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<h2>Lo Celso almost ruled out for the Finalissima</h2>



The news of Giovani Lo Celso’s injury is far from ideal for Lionel Scaloni, as it inevitably casts doubt over the midfielder’s participation in Argentina’s next challenge: the Finalissima against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/spain/">Spain</a>, scheduled for March 27 in Doha, Qatar.



If the most optimistic forecasts hold true, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/giovani-lo-celso/">Lo Celso</a> could recover by early or mid-March, giving him roughly two weeks to regain his best form and rejoin the Argentine squad. In other words, it would be a tight timeline.



If reality aligns more with the pessimistic forecasts and the midfielder needs at least two months to return, his presence in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/finalissima/">Finalissima</a> will be ruled out, and he would not play again until April.



<h2>Another injury complicates Lo Celso’s career</h2>



In recent years, injuries have been a nightmare for Giovani Lo Celso. In fact, this was one of the main reasons Tottenham let him go before his return to Real Betis. In Spain, he has struggled to maintain consistent performance for the same reasons.



The start of this injury streak came in the weeks leading up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. At that time, Lo Celso was a key player for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/argentina/">Argentina</a> and Messi’s main creative partner on the field. But a serious muscle injury while playing for Villarreal kept him out of that tournament, depriving him of the chance to become a world champion. Now, a similar situation again puts his future with Argentina in doubt.

Messi hit by major blow ahead of Finalissima vs. Spain as key Argentina midfielder likely ruled out

Messi hit by major blow ahead of Finalissima vs. Spain as key Argentina midfielder likely ruled out - World Soccer Talk

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With less than five months to go before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, national teams around the world are closely monitoring the status of their players, wary of any physical issues that could jeopardize their participation in the tournament. Giovani Lo Celso, one of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a>’s teammates with Argentina, picked up an injury while competing in the UEFA Europa League.



On Thursday, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-betis/">Real Betis</a> fell 2-0 to PAOK in Greece. It was a tough result for the Spanish side, who needed a win to all but secure direct qualification to the round of 16. Betis remain in a qualification spot, but only goal difference separates them from their closest challenger, Porto.



The loss, however, was not the only bad news for Betis. In the 62nd minute, head coach Manuel Pellegrini decided to bring on one of his most important players, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/giovani-lo-celso">Giovani Lo Celso</a>, to replace Pablo Fornals. Just six minutes later, the midfielder was forced off and replaced by Dani Perez. The setback was compounded by an injury to another Betis player, Aitor Ruibal.



“It’s difficult to have a diagnosis right now, but both are muscle injuries… They won’t be available for this weekend’s match or the next one either,” Pellegrini explained in his post-match press conference, according to Sport. “Gio’s happened just a minute after he came on,” the coach added, visibly frustrated by the bizarre circumstances surrounding Lo Celso’s injury.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2026/01/23110343/locelso-messi-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-617391"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi and Giovani Lo Celso playing for Argentina in 2025.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Injuries, a recurring problem for Lo Celso</h2>



Despite being one of the most talented midfielders in La Liga, Giovani Lo Celso has struggled to establish himself consistently at Real Betis. This season, he has even lost his status as an undisputed starter under head coach Manuel Pellegrini.


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Much of that has to do with the recurring injuries the Argentine midfielder has suffered throughout his career, particularly in recent years. In fact, since returning to Betis in mid-2024, Lo Celso has missed 177 days due to various injuries, according to Transfermarkt. As a result, he has been sidelined for 24 matches with the Spanish club.



The muscle issue suffered in Greece on Thursday adds to that list and will increase his absence tally by at least two more games. Lo Celso will miss Sunday’s La Liga match against Alaves and will also be unavailable for the decisive <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/europa-league/">Europa League</a> clash against Feyenoord next Thursday.



<h2>Injuries also affect Lo Celso with Argentina</h2>



Between 2019 and 2022, Giovani Lo Celso was Lionel Messi’s main creative partner with the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/argentina/">Argentina</a> national team. The midfielder played a key role in winning the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 Finalissima, and he was on track to be an unquestioned starter under Lionel Scaloni at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.



However, weeks before the tournament kicked off in Qatar, Lo Celso suffered a serious muscle injury while playing for Villarreal. The setback required surgery and ruled him out of the World Cup entirely. From that point on, he was never able to reclaim his prominent role with the national team, falling behind players such as Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Thiago Almada.



Since then, Gio has missed seven more matches with Argentina due to various physical issues during World Cup qualifying. And while Scaloni’s next call-up is still two months away, this latest injury only adds to the doubts surrounding Lo Celso’s availability.

Bad news for Messi: Argentina teammate Giovani Lo Celso suffers absurd injury during Europa League clash

Bad news for Messi: Argentina teammate Giovani Lo Celso suffers absurd injury during Europa League clash - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a> has become the centerpiece of Inter Miami’s ambitious project, with the club’s front office pushing for multiple signings in an effort not only to replicate but surpass the success of the 2025 season. However, the Argentine icon has reportedly hit a setback in those plans, as one of the club’s top recent targets, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/giovani-lo-celso/">Giovani Lo Celso</a>, has made a key decision about his future with the 2026 World Cup in mind.



In recent weeks, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/messis-inter-miami-advance-for-giovani-lo-celso-betis-reportedly-set-asking-price-for-argentina-star/">speculation had grown around a potential move for Lo Celso, who has seen inconsistent playing time at Real Betis</a>. The midfielder’s close relationship with Messi and fellow Argentina international Rodrigo De Paul only fueled rumors of a possible switch to Inter Miami, which appeared to be a natural fit both on and off the field.



According to Argentine journalist Juan Manuel Viera on DSports Radio, Lo Celso has decided to remain at Real Betis. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a> and Rosario Central, the club where he developed as a youth player, were the two sides showing the strongest interest, but the midfielder ultimately opted to stay in Spain, at least through the 2026 World Cup cycle.



Betis are not open to a loan move, meaning any transfer would require a permanent deal at a significant fee. That stance effectively ruled out Rosario Central, which is already managing a substantial payroll commitment with Ángel Di María on the roster.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/12/28214546/giovani-lo-celso-real-betis-1920x1080.webp" alt="Giovani Lo Celso of Betis celebrates scoring against Deportivo Alaves." class="wp-image-612534"></figure><figcaption>Giovani Lo Celso of Betis celebrates scoring against Deportivo Alaves.</figcaption></figure>



A move to Inter Miami remained attractive due to the opportunity to reunite with Messi and De Paul. However, with the MLS season still nearly two months away and Lo Celso gradually reclaiming a more prominent role at Betis, the urgency to make a move has diminished.


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During the 2025-26 season, Lo Celso has appeared in 23 matches across all competitions for Betis, logging 1,394 minutes (an average of roughly 60 minutes per game), while contributing three goals and two assists. He has started each of the last two matches against Elche and Real Oviedo (scoring in a 1-1 draw) and also played 45 minutes against Real Madrid, a clear sign his role has been growing as 2026 approaches.



<h2>Lo Celso and the 2026 World Cup dream</h2>



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/lionel-messis-2026-fifa-world-cup-status-still-questionable-lionel-scaloni-sends-subtle-11-word-hint-that-could-decide-argentina-captains-future/">The Argentina national team has already begun preparations for the 2026 World Cup, with head coach Lionel Scaloni and Messi holding discussions earlier this month</a>. While the core of the squad is taking shape, several players remain in competition for roster spots, increasing the pressure on those fighting for consistent minutes at club level.



When asked about Thiago Almada’s situation at Atlético Madrid, where he has struggled for playing time despite being a regular under Scaloni, the coach delivered a clear message for the entire player pool: “We shouldn’t get involved, and we never did. Once they make a decision, we’ll evaluate the footballing side of it. Performance will ultimately be the deciding factor, not the league or the team they play for.”



According to reports in Argentina, Scaloni has also spoken directly with Lo Celso, emphasizing that as long as he maintains continuity and earns regular minutes, his <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/world-cup/">World Cup</a> chances remain intact regardless of where he plays. The midfielder, despite being part of Argentina’s Copa América triumphs, missed the 2022 World Cup due to a late injury, making 2026 a potential opportunity for long-awaited redemption.

Lionel Messi reportedly faces backlash at Inter Miami as Gio Lo Celso makes future decision ahead of 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi reportedly faces backlash at Inter Miami as Gio Lo Celso makes future decision ahead of 2026 World Cup - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/giovani-lo-celso/">Giovani Lo Celso</a> has emerged as Inter Miami’s top target for the winter transfer window, with the MLS side pushing aggressively to add another Argentina national team player to its roster. With <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a> potentially set to reunite with yet another familiar face, the Herons have reportedly taken a key step toward securing the midfielder’s signature.



Following Sergio Busquets’ retirement from professional soccer, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a> now have two openings to address: a Designated Player slot (currently held by Messi, with Rodrigo De Paul expected to fill the other) and a clear void in midfield. To restore balance and control in the center of the pitch, Lo Celso has been identified as both a sporting solution and a market opportunity, with talks now advancing.



According to Diario Olé, Real Betis head coach Manuel Pellegrini has already approved Giovani Lo Celso’s departure to Inter Miami. While the Argentine midfielder has been an important contributor in recent seasons, his role has diminished during the 2025-26 campaign, making the Herons’ interest an appealing chance for Betis to cash in on the 29-year-old.



In recent days, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/messis-inter-miami-advance-for-giovani-lo-celso-betis-reportedly-set-asking-price-for-argentina-star/">Betis have reportedly set an asking price of €5 million (approximately $5.8 million) for Inter Miami to complete the transfer</a>. That fee would allow the Spanish club to cover the remaining amortization from Lo Celso’s move from Tottenham Hotspur (completed for a similar amount in 2024-25) while also reducing their annual wage bill by more than €5 million.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20251229_WST_612522_giovani-lo-celso-real-betis_553d109e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Giovani Lo Celso of Betis celebrates scoring against Deportivo Alaves." class="wp-image-612534"></figure><figcaption>Giovani Lo Celso of Betis celebrates scoring against Deportivo Alaves.</figcaption></figure>



Lo Celso has also attracted interest from Argentine club Rosario Central, his boyhood team, where he could reunite with Ángel Di María. However, Inter Miami have reportedly emerged as the most attractive destination, with advanced negotiations underway on a deal that would see the midfielder join MLS on a two-year contract.


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<h2>Why is Lo Celso joining Inter Miami?</h2>



After beginning the season as an undisputed starter, Giovani Lo Celso has seen his role at Real Betis decline in recent months. He has appeared in 20 matches across all competitions, recording two goals and two assists in 1,203 minutes, but his last start came on November 23 against Girona, when he was substituted due to injury and subsequently missed three matches.



With the 2026 World Cup now less than six months away, Lo Celso’s priority has become consistent playing time to ensure full fitness for the tournament. After missing the opening matches of 2025 through injury, he was recently recalled by <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/argentina/">Argentina</a> head coach Lionel Scaloni for the national team’s latest fixtures.



A key figure in Argentina’s 2024 Copa América triumph, providing the assist for Lautaro Martínez’s winning goal in the final, Lo Celso is widely expected to be part of the World Cup squad. After missing the 2022 tournament due to a late injury, the midfielder will be eager for redemption on North American soil in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami reportedly take major step toward signing Argentina international Gio Lo Celso

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami reportedly take major step toward signing Argentina international Gio Lo Celso - World Soccer Talk

Inter Miami are preparing to match—or even improve on—their performance from last season. To do so, they will need to surround <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a> with top-level players, such as Giovani Lo Celso, for whom Real Betis have reportedly made a significant decision.



According to El Correo de Andalucia, cited by Infobae, the Spanish side are willing to let <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/giovani-lo-celso/">Lo Celso</a> leave if a sufficiently strong offer arrives. “A figure above €5 million (around $5.8 million) would allow the club to cover the remaining amortization of his transfer from Tottenham and reduce the annual wage burden by more than €5 million,” the report explains.



The Argentine midfielder joined <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-betis/">Real Betis</a> in the summer of 2024 from the Premier League. While he initially delivered standout performances, physical issues prevented him from playing consistently, causing him to lose his spot in the starting XI.



Now, primarily a substitute—he has played only 78 minutes across the last four matches—and with a salary that is considerably high for Betis, the club is open to parting ways with Lo Celso before his contract expires in June 2028.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20251227_WST_612306_pellegrini_91464d06.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-612318"></figure><figcaption>Real Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Lo Celso lost his place at Betis</h2>



The influence Giovani Lo Celso had during his early months at Real Betis in La Liga and European competitions has diminished over time, to the point that he lost the trust of head coach Manuel Pellegrini.


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“He has received an offer. He’s thinking about it and Betis will let him leave because I think Pellegrini has partly grown tired of Lo Celso,” journalist Gonzalo de la Haza said on Sevillania TV this week. “Pellegrini isn’t willing to give him minutes just because there’s a World Cup on the horizon.”



<h2>The World Cup is Lo Celso’s priority</h2>



For a world-class player like Lo Celso, just 29 years old, Major League Soccer might not seem like the ideal destination right now—if not for the proximity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He needs playing time in the coming months to convince coach Lionel Scaloni, and playing alongside Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul could help him achieve that goal.



Lo Celso has been an important player for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/argentina/">Argentina</a> since 2019. His best years were up to 2022, when he was an undisputed starter for Scaloni and Messi’s creative partner on the field. However, an unexpected muscle injury kept him out of Qatar 2022, and he has never fully regained that prominence since.



Missing the FIFA tournament was a major setback for the midfielder, who had also been on the Russia 2018 squad without playing a minute. Now, approaching 30 years old, Lo Celso appears to be facing his last chance to play in a World Cup, and a club change could help him reach that objective.

Messi’s Inter Miami advance for Giovani Lo Celso: Betis reportedly set asking price for Argentina star

Messi’s Inter Miami advance for Giovani Lo Celso: Betis reportedly set asking price for Argentina star - World Soccer Talk

When <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/argentina/}">Argentina</a> takes the field in Buenos Aires on Thursday, the atmosphere will be unlike any other. The reigning world champions have already secured their place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Their opponents, Venezuela, still have everything to fight for — a potential spot in the inter-confederation playoffs. Yet beyond the stakes for Venezuela, all eyes will be on&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a>, who is preparing for what could be his final appearance on Argentine soil in a competitive fixture. 



But while fans prepare to celebrate their captain, an unexpected subplot has emerged:&nbsp;ten Argentina players are just one yellow card away from suspension&nbsp;and could miss the high-profile clash with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ecuador/">Ecuador</a> that follows. Messi, now 38, has not officially confirmed if he will play at the next World Cup. 



His contract with Inter Miami runs through 2025, with talks reportedly underway over a possible extension. But what is certain is that this match holds extraordinary meaning for the man who delivered Argentina their long-awaited third star.



“It’s going to be a very special game for me because it’s the last one in the qualifying round. I don’t know if there will be friendlies or more games after that,”&nbsp;Messi told&nbsp;Apple TV&nbsp;following Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup semifinal win over Orlando City on August 27. For Argentine fans, this sentiment makes Thursday’s match feel like both a celebration and a farewell — even if Messi has not yet closed the door on his World Cup future.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250904_WST_588496_Lionel-Messi-Argentina-1200x675_face82ce.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Lionel Messi Argentina" class="wp-image-587926" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Ten players on thin ice</h2>



While Messi takes center stage, coach Lionel Scaloni faces a delicate challenge.&nbsp;Ten key members of the squad are one booking away from suspension, meaning they risk missing Tuesday’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/world-cup-qualifiers/">qualifier</a> against Ecuador.


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Among them is Messi’s close friend and&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a> teammate <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/rodrigo-de-paul/">Rodrigo De Paul</a>, a vital figure in Argentina’s midfield engine room. He is joined by fellow midfielders&nbsp;Exequiel Palacios, Thiago Almada, Giovani Lo Celso, Alexis Mac Allister, and Leandro Paredes, each carrying a yellow card.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250904_WST_588496_Julian-Alvarez-Argentina-1-1200x675_e5652898.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="Julian Alvarez of Argentina celebrates after scoring the team&apos;s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Argentina and Chile at Estadio Más Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on September 05, 2024 in Buenos Aires, Argentina." class="wp-image-562044" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



The danger extends across the pitch. In defense,&nbsp;Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel&nbsp;are both walking a disciplinary tightrope. And up front, Argentina’s attacking powerhouses&nbsp;Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez&nbsp;are also at risk. This means that almost half of Argentina’s starting-quality options could be unavailable for the trip to Quito, where Ecuador’s altitude already poses a difficult challenge.

Trouble for Argentina? From Lionel Messi’s ally Rodrigo De Paul to Julian Alvarez: 10 Argentina stars risk missing key Ecuador match

Trouble for Argentina? From Lionel Messi’s ally Rodrigo De Paul to Julian Alvarez: 10 Argentina stars risk missing key Ecuador match - World Soccer Talk

The debate over who is the best soccer player in history has always sparked heated discussions. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/cristiano-ronaldo/">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>’s recent self-proclamation as the best in history has drawn responses from various figures in the soccer world, including players and coaches. Now, a teammate of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a> in the Argentina national team has weighed in, dismissing Ronaldo’s claim.



In a recent interview with Spanish TV channel La Sexta, Ronaldo asserted, “The best in history is me,” citing his goal-scoring record and self-described completeness as a player. However, for Argentina midfielder <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/giovani-lo-celso/">Giovani Lo Celso</a>, Ronaldo’s claim doesn’t hold up.



When asked about Ronaldo’s statement in an interview with Argentine outlet Infobae, Lo Celso responded, “No, I didn’t see it.” He was then asked for his opinion, to which he replied: “The answer is clear, no need to clarify it. The best in the world is Leo (Messi).”



Despite being sidelined due to injury ahead of the 2022 World Cup, Lo Celso has remained a key player for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/argentina/">Argentina</a> under coach Lionel Scaloni. The midfielder was unequivocal in his belief that Messi deserves the title of history’s greatest, offering no need for further explanation.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250210_WST_554230_Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina-1200x675_65ac88b5.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-554232" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/10154813/Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/10154813/Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/10154813/Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/10154813/Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/10154813/Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/10154813/Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/10154813/Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/10154813/Lionel-Messi-Giovani-Lo-Celso-Argentina.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Currently playing for Real Betis, Lo Celso played a pivotal role in Argentina’s 2021 Copa America triumph, providing the assist for Lautaro Martínez’s winning goal. As an integral part of the team, Lo Celso was also asked if he or his teammates put pressure on Messi to participate in the upcoming World Cup. His response was clear:


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“No, in the end, it will be what he wants. Obviously, what we all want, both us and all Argentinians, is for him to be there. I think he is enjoying himself a lot. He looks really good. As Scaloni said, we have to keep enjoying him, and obviously, it will depend on what he wants to do. But if it’s up to us, of course, everyone would say yes.”



<h2>Lo Celso joins Mascherano in the debate</h2>



Another figure who weighed in on Ronaldo’s self-proclamation was Inter Miami coach and Messi’s close friend, Javier Mascherano. Instead of offering a direct rebuttal, Mascherano took a more diplomatic approach.



“They are opinions; I have a lot of respect for Cristiano, and I don’t need to analyze his opinions. It’s what he believes; it’s fine. I have my own thinking, and the truth is, it’s not that (his opinion),” Mascherano stated during a recent press conference in the team’s preseason.

Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammate dismisses Cristiano Ronaldo's claim as the best in history

Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammate dismisses Cristiano Ronaldo's claim as the best in history - World Soccer Talk

Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammate dismisses Cristiano Ronaldo’s claim as the best in history

<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/nations/argentina-national-team-tv-schedule/">Argentina’s </a>preparations for the <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/category/world-cup-2022/">World Cup</a> concluded with a friendly thumping of the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi, 5-0. The Albiceleste enter the tournament as one of the favorites to lift the coveted trophy. 



Head coach Lionel Scaloni, though, is far from set in his bid to lead the side to its third World Cup. He must figure out how to replace the injured Giovani Lo Celso in the Argentina starting eleven.



The Villareal star played an integral part of the squad since Scaloni took over in 2019. However, he sustained a hamstring injury with muscle tear that ended any chances of his participation in Qatar. The nimble left footed midfielder was left with no other option than to finally <a href="https:\/\/mundoalbiceleste.com/2022/11/09/gio-lo-celso-to-undergo-surgery-on-thursday/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">undergo surgery</a>. He vacates a massive hole for Argentina in the middle of the park.



Lo Celso formed a great understanding with Leandro Paredes and Rodrigo De Paul in the midfield three controlling the game and dictating possession for the South American side. Scaloni had earlier mentioned that the 26-year-old is irreplaceable ‘footballing wise.’ Now, the injury forces a replacement for the irreplaceable.



<h2>Potential Giovani Lo Celso replacements for Argentina</h2>



<h5>Enzo Fernandez</h5>



The 21-year-old is having a terrific season in Benfica. Now, a host of European giants, including <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a>, <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/teams/liverpool-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a> and <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a>, keep <a href="https:\/\/www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11408801/Manchester-United-Benfica-star-Enzo-Fernandez-January.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">close tabs</a> on the Argentine. Fernandez fits perfectly in Scaloni’s preferred 4-3-3 system. Surely, he is among the top players to consider for a place in the starting eleve. 



He has played a stellar role for Benfica, who are unbeaten in the domestic league. Plus, Benfica finished top of <a href="https:\/\/www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/standings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a vaunted Champions League group</a> that included PSG and Juventus.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">🇦🇷 Enzo Fernández is the most valuable U25 player from outside Europe&apos;s top 5 leagues, as per CIES Football. 💰⭐️ <a href="https:\/\/t.co/fbsAGbAsrK">pic.twitter.com/fbsAGbAsrK</a>— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/AlbicelesteTalk/status/1589746786054594561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2022</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https:\/\/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



One of Lo Celso’s biggest strengths was his ability to link up with Messi in the final third. It is a key component of Argentina’s current unbeaten run hitting 35 fixtures. While the Benfica starlet plays in a deeper role, he has excellent ball retaining capability with an envious passing range. 



Should the Benfica player start, this could mean that Rodrigo De Paul plays a little further forward when Argentina are in possession.



<h5>Alexis Mac Allister</h5>



Another player who could rightfully claim a place in the starting eleven would Alexis Mac Allister. Like Enzo, Mac Alliser is having a great season at Brighton. The 23-year-old played second fiddle to Pascal Gross at times. Yet, this season, he has been a real revelation for Roberto de Zerbi. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Alexis Mac Allister for Brighton: ⚽️ 5 goals 👕 14 games Alexis Mac Allister last season for Brighton: ⚽️ 5 goals 👕 33 games <a href="https:\/\/t.co/BbUeRQfKVL">pic.twitter.com/BbUeRQfKVL</a>— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) <a href="https:\/\/twitter.com/RoyNemer/status/1591830722637139972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2022</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https:\/\/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Mac Allister has been the anchor for the Premier League side and rarely makes a poor pass. He also has an eye for the goal and is adept at taking set pieces. Essentially, he can seamlessly fill the void Lo Celso thrived on. 



Mac Allister’s father, Carlos, has coincidentally played with Argentina’s cult hero Diego Maradona at Boca Juniors in the early 1990s during the latter’s second stint with the club side.



Mac Allister started the friendly against the United Arab Emirates alongside Paredes and De Paul. Eventually, Enzo Fernandez also featured. 



<h5>The others</h5>



Having been placed in <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/04/analysis-of-world-cup-groups/">Group C</a> with Mexico, Poland and Saudi Arabia, it feels as if Scaloni will change his starting eleven depending on the opposition. 



Messi and company start their campaign against Saudi Arabia. Alejandro ‘Papu’ Gomez is a fit if Argentina decide to use a more attacking lineup. The 34-year-old is primarily a winger. Therefore, the Albiceleste will line up in a 4-2-3-1. 



Exequiel Palacios of Bayer Leverkusen is another option for Scaloni who shone in his last Bundesliga game against VFB Stuttgart. He picked up an assist as his side won, 2-0. 



Guido Rodriguez could be a formidable option, too. Rodriguez can play as a central defensive midfielder. Leandro Paredes can occupy a holding role while de Paul pushes up into an advanced role. Guido Rodriguez also played a substitute role against the United Arab Emirates.



Argentina begins its World Cup conquest against Saudi Arabia on <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-tv-schedule/">Tuesday, Nov. 22</a>.



PHOTO: IMAGO / Icon Sportswire



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<h3>Guide to World Cup 2022</h3>
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<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-tv-schedule/">TV Schedule:</a> All the info on <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-tv-schedule/">where and when to watch</a> every game
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<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/04/analysis-of-world-cup-groups/">The Groups:</a> We <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/04/analysis-of-world-cup-groups/">breakdown each group</a> and all the teams
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<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-jerseys-for-qatar-2022/">The Kits:</a> Check out <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/world-cup-jerseys-for-qatar-2022/">what every team will be wearing</a> on the field this fall
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<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/predictor/">Predictor:</a> Play out every scenario with our <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/predictor/">World Cup Predictor</a>
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<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/05/world-cup-bracket-free-download/">World Cup Bracket:</a> Map out the <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/05/world-cup-bracket-free-download/">entire tournament</a>, from the groups to the final
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<a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/category/world-cup-2022/">World Cup Hub:</a> Your one stop for <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.com/category/world-cup-2022/">everything Qatar 2022</a>
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As Giovani Lo Celso misses out on the World Cup through injury, we look at possible replacements that Argentina can use in that role.

Potential Argentina replacements for pivotal Giovani Lo Celso

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