Argentina hit by injury blow as Leonardo Balerdi ruled out of World Cup squad

Argentina’s World Cup preparations have suffered a setback after defender Leonardo Balerdi was ruled out of the tournament due to a muscle injury, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed on Saturday.

In a brief statement, the AFA said the 27-year-old centre-back sustained a strain in the soleus muscle of his right leg and would not be available for selection for the defending champions.

“Defender Leonardo Balerdi suffered a muscle injury in the soleus of his right leg and will not be part of the squad that will compete at the World Cup,” the federation said, wishing him a swift recovery.

Balerdi, who plays his club football for Olympique de Marseille, had been dealing with ongoing muscular discomfort in the weeks leading up to the tournament. His condition worsened during Argentina’s pre-tournament training camp in Texas, prompting medical staff and head coach Lionel Scaloni to withdraw him from the squad as a precaution.

The timing is a major disappointment for the defender, who had enjoyed a strong season in Ligue 1 and was widely expected to make his first appearance at a World Cup. He had recently been training with the squad and posted images from team sessions shortly before his withdrawal was confirmed.

Argentina must now select a replacement from its provisional list, with several defenders reportedly under consideration, including Marcos Senesi, Lucas Martínez Quarta, Germán Pezzella, Zaid Romero, and Lautaro Di Lollo.

Team officials are expected to finalize a replacement after their upcoming warm-up fixture against Honduras in Texas.

Balerdi’s absence adds to a growing list of fitness concerns for Argentina as preparations continue. Several players, including Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, and Nicolás Paz, are undergoing individualized training programs, while senior stars such as Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martínez, and Julián Álvarez are being carefully managed ahead of the tournament.

After their U.S.-based friendlies, Argentina are scheduled to continue preparations with a final tune-up match against Iceland in Alabama before beginning their Group J campaign against Algeria on June 16, which also includes Austria and Jordan.