decided whether captain Lionel Messi

will start in the World Cup qualifier against Chile, adding that the 37-year-old is being monitored for his condition.

"We have recently contacted Messi. We have not yet decided whether he will start or not. It is important to know how he is physically," Scaloni said.

Argentina have already secured their ticket to the 2026 World Cup. They are top of the points table in the South American qualifying round. However, they will play against bottom-placed Chile on Thursday. Many of their key players are out of the game due to injury or suspension.

"We don't have many players

available. So those we have called up, if they are ready, will have the opportunity to play," Scaloni said.

He added, "I haven't decided the starting XI yet. But we will play those who we think are ready for some time. Results are important, of course, but that's not the main thing right now. We want these players to gain confidence and adapt to the team."

Scaloni stressed that the team's attitude remains the same. Argentina will take to the field with the aim of playing well.

In his words, 'We want to play.

We want to see the newcomers. We want to give a chance to those who are playing well. A match never comes to an end. We don't play many matches so we would say we don't want to play this match. Rather, it will be a great match. There are definitely some difficulties. But we are in a good position.'

Scaloni also commented on the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as Brazil coach. "I think it's great. Ancelotti is one of the best coaches in recent times. He will make Brazil even stronger," he said.

He added, "I like his behavior, everything is good. He will add something new to the team. I wish him all the best."