For Argentina, the decision would represent a sensible balance between preparation and risk. A final warm-up match can sharpen a squad, but a goalkeeper carrying a hand injury into the World Cup could create a far greater problem.
The report says Martínez has begun rehabilitation after sustaining the injury while warming up for a club final. He played in that match, but his absence from Argentina’s previous friendly has intensified questions about his readiness.
There is no indication that the goalkeeper’s tournament involvement has been ruled out. Instead, the current expectation is that Argentina are managing his recovery cautiously.
Geronimo Rulli is expected to replace Martínez against Iceland, following Juan Musso’s appearance in the previous friendly against Honduras.
That gives Scaloni another chance to assess his goalkeeping depth before the competitive action begins. Rulli has extensive international experience and would not be entering the role without familiarity with Argentina’s defensive structure, but Martínez remains the established first choice when fit.
For now, the match appears more likely to test Argentina’s alternatives than settle any long-term change in the position.
Scaloni’s position on fitness has been uncompromising. “We are entirely clear on the fact that if a player is not physically right, they will be left out. We have no doubts about that,” he said.
That approach could shape the final days of Argentina’s build-up, with several established players reportedly working their way back to full fitness. Reputation alone, Scaloni insists, will not guarantee selection.
The Iceland friendly will therefore be judged less by the result than by the next medical and training updates. For Argentina, Martínez’s return to full goalkeeping work may be the most important storyline before the opener against Algeria.