Argentina defender Leonardo Balerdi will miss the World Cup due to a calf injury.
The captain of Marseille was included in the 26-man squad that traveled to Argentina’s training camp in Kansas City, but he will not participate in the team’s quest to defend their World Cup title.
Argentina announced on X on Saturday, “Defender Leonardo Balerdi suffered a muscle injury in the soleus of his right leg and will not be part of the squad for the World Cup. Stay strong, and wishing you a speedy recovery, Flaco!”
Balerdi, who has yet to play in a World Cup, contributed to Argentina’s qualification campaign with seven appearances, including three starts. He has a total of 11 national caps.
He enters the summer after a strong season with Marseille, where he made 36 appearances across all competitions, netting one goal.
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Argentina boasts a strong lineup at center back, featuring players like Lisandro Martínez, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, and Facundo Medina.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni now faces the task of finding a replacement for Balerdi. Marcos Senesi and Lucas Martínez Quarta are both candidates who have previously played for Argentina this year.