What happened: Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has officially summoned defender Marcos Senesi to the 26-man World Cup squad. The move comes after Leonardo Balerdi was ruled out of the tournament due to a right calf injury sustained during training in Texas.
Why it matters: Senesi, who recently signed with Tottenham Hotspur, provides critical depth to an Argentine backline looking to defend its global title. His inclusion ensures Scaloni maintains a full complement of defenders after Balerdi’s muscle tear forced an emergency roster adjustment just days before the opening match.
By the numbers: Argentina is slated to compete in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. The Albiceleste open their campaign on June 16 in Kansas City against Algeria, followed by matchups in Dallas on June 22 and June 27.
What to watch: Senesi is expected to join the team in the United States immediately to integrate into tactical sessions ahead of the Group J opener.