Scaloni monitors injury concerns as Argentina begin camp

Argentina kicked off their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday with their first training session in Kansas City, as Lionel Scaloni's side entered the final phase of their build-up to the tournament.

The reigning world champions trained at the Compass Minerals National Performance Center, carrying out light gym and field exercises during their first full session together. Scaloni, however, continues to monitor several injury concerns within the squad ahead of the tournament opener against Algeria on June 16.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes is recovering from a hamstring injury, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez arrived in camp with a finger fracture. Nicolas Paz, Cristian Romero, Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Gonzalez, Gonzalo Montiel and Nahuel Molina are also working their way back to full fitness.

As previously confirmed, Argentina will fine-tune their preparations with two friendly matches before beginning their World Cup campaign.

The Albiceleste will first face Honduras on June 6 at Kyle Field in Texas, one of the largest stadiums in the United States with a capacity of more than 102,000 spectators. They will then take on Iceland on June 9 at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Alabama in their final outing before the World Cup.

The friendlies are also expected to provide Scaloni with an opportunity to assess his squad depth, particularly in goal. While Martinez remains Argentina's undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, his injury has brought increased attention to backup options Gerónimo Rulli and Juan Musso.

Rulli enters the camp with greater international experience and an unbeaten record in official appearances for Argentina, while Musso's strong performances for Atletico Madrid at the end of the European season have strengthened his claim for the role.

Argentina will remain based in Kansas City throughout the group stage, travelling to match venues before returning to their training base as they aim to defend the World Cup title they won in Qatar four years ago.