Nico Paz

Paz (knee) completed his first training session Sunday after being sidelined since May 10 and will be available for Tuesday's friendly against Iceland. Prior to the game, Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that "Montiel, Molina and Nico Paz are available".

Analysis: Paz's return to training is an encouraging development after the knee injury had raised doubts over his involvement in Argentina's early World Cup fixtures. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder is unlikely to start against Algeria on June 16 but his availability gives coach Lionel Scaloni a valuable option in the creative midfield zone, particularly given the injury concerns surrounding several other attacking players in the squad. His recovery ahead of the tournament opener is a timely boost for the defending world champions.

Jun 7, 2026

Could return soon

Paz (strain) didn't play in Argentina's friendly against Honduras on Saturday, but coach Lionel Scaloni revealed that "Nico could have been available today", Telemundo Deportes reports.

Analysis: Paz has shown positive signs in the final days of his recovery process from the muscle injury he picked up in May, and he's expected to be an option in Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria. While he's unlikely to start, his availability would give the team a solid option, adding differential talent in the attacking midfield zone. He might contend for playing time with Nicolas Gonzalez (strain), Lionel Messi (hamstring) and Giuliano Simeone, gaining increased value if one of the other injured players fails to recover in the short term.

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Nico Paz

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