Scaloni has a challenge ahead of him, presenting the first reserve list without the country's maximum idol. The coach will have to submit the list of reserves by Sunday, September 6. This means he has less than a week to finalise a tentative call-up for a FIFA window that will last 16 days, from September 21 to October 6. The exact number of friendlies and opponents is still uncertain.
The next step for Scaloni is to present the reserve list, which will be a crucial moment in the post-Messi era. The coach will have to make some tough decisions, choosing players who can fill the void left by Messi's retirement. The uncertainty surrounding the number of friendlies and opponents will only add to the challenge.
The post-Messi era is set to begin with a special FIFA window in September and October, and Scaloni will have to navigate this new landscape without the country's maximum idol. The challenge ahead of him will be to present a competitive squad that can perform without Messi.