Argentina lineup vs. Ecuador: Predicted XI for 2026 World Cup qualifier with Lionel Scaloni set to pick Lionel Messi replacement

Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni will have to replace Lionel Messi for Tuesday's 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ecuador in Guayaquil.

Messi played his final competitive home game for Argentina on Thursday, scoring a brace in a comfortable 3-0 victory over Venezuela.

La Albiceleste are now preparing for their last match of a successful qualifying campaign, where they have racked up 38 points from 17 matches.

However, Messi will not be involved in the contest after being given permission to enjoy some rest following his recent injury struggles at Inter Miami. 

With Messi unavailable for selection, Lautaro Martinez is likely to come into the side after finding the net in Thursday's substitute appearance.

The Inter marksman is set to feature in a front two pairing with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, who will be looking to add to his 13-goal international tally.

Alvarez's new Atletico teammate Nico Gonzalez is pushing to replace Franco Mastantuono on the right flank after coming off the bench to provide an assist in Thursday's win, while another summer signing Thiago Almada is expected to operate off the left wing.

Alexis Mac Allister was not risked on matchday 17 after arriving late to the camp following Liverpool's narrow win over Arsenal, but he should be ready to start in the middle of the park on Tuesday, which could see Leandro Paredes or Rodrigo De Paul drop to the bench.

In defence, Leonardo Balerdi is in line to replace Tottenham Hotspur's Cristian Romero, who will serve a one-match ban for an accumulation of yellow cards.

Nahuel Molina, Nicolas Otamendi and Nicolas Tagliafico could all retain their places, while Emiliano Martinez will continue in goal unless Scaloni decides to offer an opportunity to Walter Benitez or Geronimo Rulli. 

Argentina possible starting lineup:

Martinez; Molina, Balerdi, Otamendi, Tagliafico; Gonzalez, De Paul, Mac Allister, Almada; Martinez, Alvarez