Rodrigo De Paul is the player with the most appearances in Scaloni’s tenure, but with Messi’s departure, it could all be coming to an end.
He was part of the team that won four titles and started in the World Cup final. Now, in the first squad announcement since the tournament, he is no longer part of the national team’s core group.
He was called up only for Messi’s farewell, in a squad of more than 30 players. And with Messi, one of his best friends in the locker room, retiring, his story in the Argentina shirt could be coming to an end.
He did not complete 90 minutes in any match at the World Cup. Reports point to his decline beginning when he moved from Atlético de Madrid to Inter Miami.
Scaloni left the door open: if he regains his form and competitive sharpness, he will consider him again. A natural succession or a hasty decision?