Argentina's Turbulent World Cup Preparations Continue
Argentina's journey to defend their World Cup title has begun with familiar chaos, echoing the dramatic squad selections and controversies that have plagued previous campaigns. The current situation mirrors the eccentric management styles of past decades, where personal appearance sometimes mattered more than playing ability.
Historical Hair Drama Resurfaces
In the late 1990s, manager Daniel Passarella implemented strict rules that would seem extraordinary in modern football. He banned long hair, homosexuality, and earrings from his Argentina squad ahead of the 1998 World Cup. This controversial policy cost the team two of its most talented players.
Gabriel Batistuta, despite excellent form with Fiorentina, was excluded for much of the qualifying campaign until he agreed to a haircut. Meanwhile, Fernando Redondo, fresh from anchoring Real Madrid's Champions League victory, and Claudio Caniggia both refused to cut their hair and were subsequently omitted from the France 98 squad.
Redondo later explained his decision: "He had particular ideas about discipline and wanted me to have my hair cut. I didn't see what that had to do with playing football so I said no."
Modern Health Crisis Emerges
Fast forward to current preparations, and Argentina face a different kind of selection crisis. Their sole scheduled friendly before next year's tournament is against Angola in Angola - a choice that has raised eyebrows given the host nation's ongoing issues with yellow fever.
The viral infection, spread by mosquitoes, typically causes flu-like symptoms but can lead to severe complications including jaundice, bleeding, and organ failure. This health concern has already forced three key players to withdraw from the squad.
Julián Alvarez, Giuliano Simeone, and Nahuel Molina have all pulled out after failing to complete the required yellow fever vaccination process in time. An official statement confirmed: "The three Atlético Madrid footballers are left out because they have not arrived in time with the health procedures related to the yellow fever vaccine that they must have to enter Angola."
Squad Changes and Concerns
The selection issues don't end with health concerns. Enzo Fernández has also withdrawn citing fatigue, while several new faces have been called up to replace absent players.
Centre-back Kevin Mac Allister joins his brother Alexis in the squad for the first time after impressive performances for Union Saint-Gilloise. Emi Buendía earns a recall after transforming into a key player for Aston Villa, set to add to his solitary cap from over three years ago.
Perhaps most surprisingly, Lisandro Martínez has joined the squad despite not playing a minute of first-team football for Manchester United since February due to a knee injury. The defender participated in training sessions in Spain before the team's departure to Africa.
Messi's Uncertain Future
Adding to the uncertainty, Lionel Messi has raised questions about his participation in next year's tournament. Speaking in Barcelona before the trip to Africa, the Argentine captain expressed cautious optimism.
"It's a special World Cup," Messi stated. "It's special to play with the national team, and to be in other important, official competitions, especially considering what a World Cup means... but I don't want to be a burden, so to speak. I want to feel good physically, to be sure that I can help and contribute to the group, to the squad."
These comments will concern Argentine fans hoping to see their talisman lead the defence of their hard-won title.
Broader Football Landscape
Meanwhile, in other football news, former Chelsea midfielder Oscar has been hospitalised with cardiac complications during pre-season tests with São Paulo. The Brazilian club confirmed the situation while respecting the player's privacy.
In England, two fans who disguised themselves as stewards to watch the Southampton-Portsmouth derby have received three-year football banning orders. Brothers Kane and Dale Green wore hi-vis jackets and carried radio equipment in their failed attempt to bypass security at St Mary's Stadium.
As Argentina navigate their challenging preparations, the broader football world continues with its own dramas and developments, proving that the beautiful game never fails to deliver compelling stories both on and off the pitch.
