Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni will reportedly rest Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez in tonight’s international friendly against Puerto Rico.
According to TNT Sports Argentina via FCInterNews, El Toro will start the game on the bench.
Lautaro Martinez maintains an elite status in the national team’s squad, but he needs time to recover ahead of more competitive fixtures.
However, the 28-year-old needs rest after facing numerous fitness setbacks throughout 2025.
Therefore, Scaloni is considering resting his star striker this evening.
El Toro made an assist as Argentina squeezed past Venezuela in a friendly last weekend, claiming a narrow 1-0 win.
Despite his match-winning exploits, the Nerazzurri skipper will drop to the bench tonight.
Indeed, Palmeiras center-forward Jose Manuel Lopez will reportedly take his place in attack.
As such, the 24-year-old could make his international debut and partner up with Lionel Messi in the final third.
Meanwhile, Scaloni’s decision to rest Lautaro must be music to Cristian Chivu’s ears ahead of Saturday’s clash against Roma.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!