On the eve of the friendly match against Venezuela, Argentina coach Scaloni explained why Icardi was not called up:
“Icardi? I spoke with Mauro before issuing the list and I explained why he was not called up. What is happening to him directly concerns the national team. From here to the Copa America we will evaluate what will happen and see if he will be called up or not. Logically, it is evident that what is happening to him at this moment is not convenient for us.”
Scaloni also announced that Lautaro will be in the starting 11 tomorrow alongside Messi:
“The team will consist of Armani, Tagliafico, L. Martínez, Foyth, Mercado, Montiel, Lo Celso, Paredes, G. Martínez, Messi and Lautaro Martínez.”
