His inclusion in the squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 represents a victory in a race against time, which began in August 2023 when he suffered a fractured fibula and dislocated ankle during pre-season with Alaves in Spain.

Argentina will be without Atletico Madrid trio Julian Alvarez, Nahuel Molina and Giuliano Simeone for Friday's friendly in Angola after they failed to complete procedures linked to the yellow fever vaccine, Argentina's FA said on Monday.

"He's working well, he's training well... it's important for his growth. As long as there is humility, the heart always responds," Simeone told Movistar, while giving credit to Nahuel Molina's pass that led to Giuliano's goal.