If Balerdi’s reported departure is confirmed, Scaloni would not necessarily need a like-for-like replacement. The report says former international Diego Latorre has urged Argentina to select Buendia, arguing that the midfielder can provide goals, variety and a threat from distance.
That would give Scaloni another player capable of linking midfield with attack rather than simply adding defensive cover. It would also create greater flexibility against opponents who defend deep and force Argentina to manufacture openings through combination play.
The argument is strengthened by the reported finish to Buendia’s season with Aston Villa. The club reportedly finished fourth in the Premier League, won the Europa League and saw Buendia score in the final against Freiburg.
Those achievements do not guarantee an international place, particularly in a squad filled with established attacking midfielders. They do, however, provide a stronger selection case than reputation alone. Buendia would be arriving after contributing to a successful campaign and delivering in a major final.
The challenge for Scaloni is deciding whether Buendia’s qualities add something Argentina currently lack. The report acknowledges heavy competition in his position, meaning his inclusion would be a squad-construction decision rather than a straightforward reward for form.
Buendia’s presence could offer another creative option without forcing Argentina to abandon its defensive structure. The risk is that adding one more attack-minded player leaves the squad short of cover elsewhere, especially before a major tournament.
The next squad update should clarify whether Balerdi’s reported withdrawal is confirmed and whether Scaloni chooses continuity or variety. If Buendia is called up, the key storyline will be how quickly his club momentum translates into a defined role for Argentina.