Lionel Scaloni, the manager of Argentina, mentioned that Lionel Messi's availability for the Copa América quarterfinal against Ecuador remains uncertain.
The decision regarding his inclusion in the lineup will be made after the evening training session, during which Messi participated.
Messi was sidelined for Argentina's last group stage game against Peru due to a right leg injury he picked up during the victory over Chile. His condition was labeled as "day to day" before he resumed training earlier this week.
Scaloni plans to have a one-on-one discussion with Messi following the final training session and prior to the game to gain a deeper insight into his physical condition.
Even though Scaloni is uncertain about the lineup against Ecuador, he emphasized that the selection of specific attacking players will not be influenced by Messi's presence.
Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez have shared the field before when the team competed against Ecuador in a friendly match on June 9, securing a 1-0 victory with Messi observing from the sidelines.
Scaloni cautioned against excessive analysis of the friendly before the upcoming knockout match, emphasizing that each game unfolds uniquely.
On the other hand, Ecuador's manager Félix Sánchez mentioned that his team thoroughly reviewed the June 9 encounter and previous matches against Argentina while getting ready for the quarterfinal.
Both teams are set to compete at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Thursday, with the victor progressing to the semifinal at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 9.
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