Nico Paz
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Dacia ArenaNews
Back in action against Iceland
Paz (knee) played 58 minutes during Tuesday's international friendly game versus Iceland, gaining form ahead of the World Cup opener against Algeria.
Analysis: Paz is unlikely to start in the first few games of the major tournament but offers a talented attacking option if the defending champions need to add playmaking and distance-shooting ability on the wings. If he avoids further fitness complications, he'll compete for playing time with all of Nicolas Gonzalez, Giuliano Simeone and Lionel Messi. The Como man has scored one goal across three international appearances in 2026.
Set to feature vs Iceland
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.
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