The Argentina national football team has announced that defender Leonardo Balerdi will miss the upcoming World Cup due to a muscle injury sustained during training. The injury, affecting the soleus muscle in his right leg, occurred on Friday, June 6, 2026. As a result, Balerdi will not be part of the squad for the tournament. Head coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to call up a replacement to fill the defensive position.
**Background on Leonardo Balerdi**
Leonardo Balerdi, 27, has been a key figure in Argentina’s defensive lineup. Playing for Olympique de Marseille in France, he has earned a reputation for his solid performances and leadership on the field. His inclusion in the preliminary squad for the World Cup highlighted his importance to the national team. ([mundoalbiceleste.com](https://mundoalbiceleste.com/2026/05/11/argentina-national-team-preliminary-list-of-55-players-for-the-world-cup-announced/?utm_source=openai))
**Impact on the Argentina National Team**
Balerdi’s absence presents a significant challenge for Argentina’s defensive strategy. His experience and versatility were expected to play a crucial role in the team’s World Cup campaign. The coaching staff now faces the task of selecting a suitable replacement to maintain the team’s defensive strength.
**Potential Replacements**
Several players could step into Balerdi’s role:
– **Lucas Martínez Quarta**: The River Plate defender has previously been called up to the national team and could provide the necessary experience and skill. ([mundoalbiceleste.com](https://mundoalbiceleste.com/2026/03/23/leonardo-balerdi-out-injured-lucas-martinez-quarta-called-up/?utm_source=openai))
– **Marcos Senesi**: Currently playing for Bournemouth in the English Premier League, Senesi has been part of the national team setup and offers a left-footed option in defense.
– **Nicolás Capaldo**: Although primarily a midfielder, Capaldo’s versatility allows him to play in defensive roles, providing depth to the squad.
**Team Preparations and Adjustments**
The Argentina national team is currently in Kansas City for their World Cup training camp. Eighteen players have chartered a flight together to the camp, including Gerónimo Rulli, Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolás Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios, Valentín Barco, Nicolás González, Giuliano Simeone, Nico Paz, Thiago Almada, Giovani Lo Celso, Enzo Fernández, Julián Álvarez, and José Manuel López. ([mundoalbiceleste.com](https://mundoalbiceleste.com/2026/05/29/argentina-national-team-players-to-charter-flight-to-kansas-city-for-world-cup-camp/?utm_source=openai))
**Looking Ahead**
As the World Cup approaches, the Argentina national team continues to prepare for the tournament. The coaching staff is focused on integrating new players and ensuring the squad is well-prepared to defend their title. The selection of a replacement for Balerdi will be a key decision in maintaining the team’s defensive cohesion.
The absence of Leonardo Balerdi is a setback for the Argentina national team, but with strategic adjustments and the depth of talent available, the team remains poised to compete at the highest level in the upcoming World Cup.
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