Lionel Messi attracts large crowd at Soldier Field for Argentina vs Ecuador soccer match

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni hints Lionel Messi will be a substitute to stay healthy for Copa América in Sunday's friendly.

Argentina's manager, Lionel Scaloni, hinted that soccer superstar Lionel Messi may be a substitute in the upcoming friendly against Ecuador in Chicago. The main goal is to ensure Messi's health and fitness for the Copa América tournament.

In a pre-match press conference, Scaloni mentioned that Messi will definitely play, but the duration is uncertain. It could be the entire game, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, or another timeframe. The focus is on keeping Messi in good condition for the tournament debut.

The last time Messi played for Argentina was as a substitute in a match against Paraguay in 2023. In the absence of Messi, Scaloni may choose to start with Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez in the attack. However, the starting lineup is still undecided as Scaloni evaluates the players.

Fans attending the friendly may not see Germán Pezzella on the field, as his fitness is being monitored ahead of Argentina's Copa América opener against Canada. Pezzella's situation will be evaluated on Monday to determine his availability.

Argentina has yet to finalize its 26-player roster for the Copa América, and the final decisions will be made after these friendlies. The focus is on ensuring the team is in top form for the tournament.

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