Argentina defender Leonardo Balerdi has been ruled out of the World Cup after a calf injury in training. Lionel Scaloni must now reshuffle his defensive options.
Argentina have suffered a major setback ahead of the World Cup after defender Leonardo Balerdi was ruled out through injury. The Olympique de Marseille centre-back picked up a calf muscle issue during a training session. He has now officially withdrawn from Lionel Scaloni’s 26-man squad.
The decision comes just days before Argentina begin their Group J campaign. The reigning champions were already finalising preparations when the injury was confirmed. Scaloni now faces a defensive reshuffle as he looks to defend the world title.
Balerdi’s injury occurred during a routine training session with the national squad. Medical tests later confirmed a problem in the soleus muscle of his right calf. The injury has been deemed serious enough to rule him out of the tournament entirely.
Argentina confirmed the news in an official statement, wishing the defender a quick recovery. The 27-year-old was part of the original 26-man squad after an impressive season with Marseille. He made 36 appearances across all competitions, anchoring their defence in Ligue 1. He was expected to play a rotational role in Argentina’s back line. Instead, he now becomes the latest defensive casualty before the tournament begins.
Scaloni must now adjust his plans with limited time before kickoff. Argentina still have experienced centre-back options available, including Lisandro Martínez, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi and Facundo Medina.
However, Balerdi’s absence reduces depth in a key area. The coach may now turn to standby players such as Marcos Senesi or Lucas Martínez Quarta. Both have international experience but limited tournament exposure. Argentina have not yet confirmed a direct replacement. The squad remains within FIFA regulations for injury changes before the first match. The decision is expected in the coming days as medical clearance procedures continue.
The injury news overshadowed Argentina’s recent 2-1 friendly win over Honduras. Lionel Messi was rested, while younger players took key roles in attack. Argentina controlled possession with 64 percent and registered 12 shots, five on target.
Their opening goal came from Julián Álvarez after a quick passing move in the final third. Honduras equalised from a set piece before Lautaro Martínez sealed the win late on. Argentina recorded an expected goals total of 1.9 compared to Honduras’ 0.8.
Despite the victory, defensive focus remained a concern. Scaloni rotated heavily, but cohesion at the back remains unsettled following Balerdi’s withdrawal.
Argentina will open their World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16. They then face Austria on June 20 before concluding Group J against Jordan on June 24. The defending champions are expected to progress, but squad depth will be tested early. Defensive stability will be a key focus in training sessions leading up to the opener.
Balerdi’s injury now adds pressure on Scaloni’s selection strategy. Argentina will rely on experience and flexibility as they aim to defend their title across a demanding group stage schedule.
Argentina are expected to confirm Balerdi’s replacement shortly. Training will continue in their camp as Scaloni finalises defensive combinations. Attention now turns to squad balance and recovery management ahead of their first match. The coaching staff will also assess match fitness across the back line before naming a settled starting XI.
