Rodrigo De Paul is almost indispensable in Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina setup. His name is usually the first written down for big matches, thanks to his ability to run alongside Lionel Messi, pressure opponents, and balance the midfield. However, the Argentina coach could spring a surprise by leaving De Paul on the bench for the World Cup semi-final against England.
The reigning world champions face England in Atlanta at 1 am Bangladesh time on Wednesday, with the winner set to play Spain in the final. Scaloni offered no clear indication of his starting XI ahead of such a crucial match, though he acknowledged the possibility of changes depending on the nature of the opponent.
“We might make some changes with the opponent in mind. We want to go with the best players available to us. The boys are in good shape,” Scaloni said.
Argentine outlet TYC Sports has reported that if a change is made, it is most likely to come in midfield — and that’s where De Paul finds himself at the center of uncertainty. Scaloni has substituted him off in the last two matches, and beyond physical fatigue, the coach is reportedly also considering adding extra pace and width against England.
Nicolás González and Giuliano Simeone are among those being considered as replacements for De Paul. Both can operate on either flank and apply pressure on the opposing full-backs — a trait Scaloni is likely to value given the need for quick defensive recovery against England’s dynamic attack.
Another possibility under consideration is a switch to a back-three formation. According to Infobae, Scaloni has also trialed a 3-5-2 setup in training, with Nicolás Otamendi playing alongside Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez. Under that plan, the midfield could feature Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister, with Messi partnering Julián Álvarez up front.
De Paul himself admits he isn’t sure of his selection. “I don’t know. The coach hasn’t told the team anything yet. You know how he is — he doesn’t say anything until matchday,” he said.
Still, the Argentine midfielder spoke about the excitement of facing a major opponent like England.
The right-back position also remains undecided, with Scaloni weighing a choice between Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel. For now, Molina appears to have a slight edge.
Should De Paul end up on the bench, it would rank among the biggest tactical surprises of Scaloni’s tenure. However, indications from within the Argentina camp suggest the decision would not reflect any dip in form, but rather a specific tactical plan aimed at stopping England.
Possible Starting XI: Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina or Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul or Giuliano Simeone or Nicolás González, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández; Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez.
