Scaloni: “Lautaro deserves Ballon d’Or more than anyone, Carboni Injury more serious than expected”

Argentina’s national team coach Lionel Scaloni addressed the media ahead of their match against Bolivia, touching on several key topics including Valentin Carboni’s injury and Lautaro Martinez’s Ballon d’Or prospects.

Scaloni expressed his concern for Valentin Carboni, who recently suffered a severe injury that will sideline him for the rest of the season. “He hadn’t finished training well, but we didn’t think it was something so serious,” Scaloni explained. “Unfortunately, the injury was confirmed. No one expected this bad news; we hope he recovers. He’s a boy we have high hopes for, and we hope he recovers well and becomes the best he can be. It was all very sad.”

Regarding his attacking options, Scaloni mentioned, “We’re evaluating the possibility of Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez playing together, but we could also play with a single striker. We’re open to all possibilities.”

Scaloni was particularly effusive in his praise for Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, even endorsing him for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. “He’s had a spectacular year: scoring in the final, top scorer in the Copa America. He deserves it more than anyone else. I appreciate him very much. I hope he wins it. He’s been with us from minute zero. If not now, it will be later. He has an enormous future.”