Following the announcement of Argentina’s 23 man squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, coach Jorge SAMPAOLI spoke during a press conference.

The Argentina coach stated that he feels comfortable with the goalkeepers, the reason why he included Cristian ANSALDI and much more. Here’s what he had to say:

“We’ve decided on these names after a lot of analysis in every position. Cristian Ansaldi can play on either side. Meza gives you options either on the outside or on the inside of the pitch.”

Argentina coach Jorge SAMPAOLI on Lionel MESSI, Sergio AGUERO and more.

“I spoke with Messi and I saw him as very enthusiastic for what’s coming up. Physically, he’s doing well. Sergio Aguero has been training normally since last week. Mercado won’t have any problems. We will see how Biglia arrives. What I saw in the past week of training is that we needed one more fullback.”

Argentina coach Jorge SAMPAOLI on the three goalkeepers.

“We haven’t had Franco ARMANI yet (on the team) but we know his form. We have a lot of faith in Sergio ROMERO. Willy CABALLERO for us is a goalkeeper which also gives us confidence.”

Argentina coach Jorge SAMPAOLI on the players.

“We’re going to have a main system of attack (when in possession of the ball) which will be 2-3-3-2. I’m very excited to count on this players and every time I see them train, the dream just gets bigger. We will be very competitive at the World Cup.

“We will have to be good because my idea is to have an Argentina which plays and takes advantage of the characteristics of the players called-up. There are young players with a lot of potential.

“The World Cup has to be faced without fear, leaving an imprint. One understands that the players have CHARACTERISTICS which serve us. With time and the desire to play, it’ll just get better. I have a lot of hope and every time I see them train, the dream gets bigger.”