Argentina Considers Midfield Shakeup Ahead of World Cup Quarterfinal Against England

Argentina, the reigning 2022 World Cup champions, are preparing for their quarterfinal match against England, scheduled for Wednesday. The team is just five days away from potentially securing a historic second consecutive World Cup title, a feat not achieved in 60 years. The main focus in Argentina is the uncertain status of Rodrigo De Paul, one of the key midfielders and a close friend of Lionel Messi. De Paul has started the last four matches under coach Lionel Scaloni but is now the only player whose starting position is in doubt, having been substituted in recent games against Egypt and Switzerland.

If De Paul is benched, Gio Simeone or Nico Gonzalez are likely to replace him, with Gonzalez possibly playing as a left midfielder in a 4-4-2 formation. Scaloni is also deciding between Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel for a defensive position, with Molina expected to start. De Paul expressed calmness ahead of the match, emphasizing his excitement and desire to bring joy to Argentine fans. Montiel highlighted the team's focus on themselves and their preparation for England's fast-wing players, aiming to minimize mistakes.

Scaloni plans to announce the starting lineup only on match day. The probable Argentine lineup includes Emiliano Martinez in goal; Molina or Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico in defense; De Paul or Simeone/Gonzalez, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernandez in midfield; with Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez leading the attack.