No Messi, no safety net. Argentina lost 2–1 to Uruguay, and the post-Messi era got off to an uncomfortable start.
Uruguay struck twice in five minutes, while Julián Álvarez pulled one back in the 73rd. There is no shortage of talent in this Argentina squad, but replacing Messi's influence is an entirely different challenge.
Lionel Scaloni has committed himself through 2030, giving Argentina some continuity. Now comes the bigger question: who becomes the attacking focal point? Álvarez is an obvious candidate, but perhaps Scaloni needs time to work out how this team functions without its biggest star.
Costa Rica comes next. The search for a new identity has begun.
Would you build Argentina's attack around Álvarez straight away, or give Scaloni time to find the right formula?
Uruguay struck twice in five minutes, while Julián Álvarez pulled one back in the 73rd. There is no shortage of talent in this Argentina squad, but replacing Messi's influence is an entirely different challenge.
Lionel Scaloni has committed himself through 2030, giving Argentina some continuity. Now comes the bigger question: who becomes the attacking focal point? Álvarez is an obvious candidate, but perhaps Scaloni needs time to work out how this team functions without its biggest star.
Costa Rica comes next. The search for a new identity has begun.
Would you build Argentina's attack around Álvarez straight away, or give Scaloni time to find the right formula?
