Rio Olympics 2016, Argentina Football Squad: Predicted Playing XI
Rio Olympics 2016 would be a land of relief for the Argentines, winning that sought-after gold medal will certainly ease the pain inflicted by their side's disappointing end to the Copa America Centenario 2016, losing to Chile for a second successive season. Manager Julio Olarticoechea will have a harder challenge than trying to spell his name right after taking over from Gerardo Martino.
It was first announced that Atletico Madrid (on loan at Sevilla) striker Luciano Vietto and West Ham United man Manuel Lanzini would be taking part in the Olympics. Things were looking bright in the attacking department until later when Atletico officials refused to let Vietto take part and Lanzini's knee started showing problems.
A blow which forced Olarticoechea to induct Boca Juniors youngster Cristian Pavon and Sao Paulo's Jonathan Calleri into the squad. Internationals are a great opportunity for the players, especially competitions of this magnitude but Atletico weren't prepared to take a risk with their wonderkid and it might potentially affect Argentina's hunt for gold.
Here we take a look at the Probable Starting XI for La Albiceleste.
Goalkeeper
Geronimo Rulli
Though these were early blows, the squad isn't in anyway looking bleak. Real Sociedad no.1 Geronimo Rulli has his firm feet set behind the defense. He had 12 clean sheets to his name for Sociedad last season.
Defenders
Alexis Soto
There won't be any lack of pace through the left with Banfield's Alexis Soto providing the required assistance through the flank. He didn't have much playing time for the Argentine Primera Division outfit, making just 15 appearances last season.
Victor Cuesta
Independiente's 27-year-old centre back Victor Cuesta is at the heart of the Argentine defense. He has made over 60 appearances for his club since 2014 and is set to captain his national side in Rio.
Lautaro Gianetti
Cuesta's centre-back pairing Lautaro Gianetti was an integral part of Velez Sarsfield's defense last year. Though overlooked in the first half, he started all 15 games in the second half last season. He was also a part of the U-20 side that featured in the 2013 South American Youth Championship.
Jose Luis Gomez
League champions Lanus' first choice right back Jose Luis Gomez will be hoping to make his mark when he steps out on the pitch for his nation. The fans will be hoping the pressure won't affect the 22-year-old.
Midfielders
Lucas Romero
Cruzeiro's defensive midfielder adds stability and creativity to Argentina's midfield. Equipped to roam the central areas and distribute the ball well, his defensive contributions will be key to the team's hope of going all the way in the tournament.
Joaquin Arzura
Arzura can swap with Romero in the holding role or play a more advanced role and have his say in the final third of the pitch. An established midfield partnership with Romero could turn the tides in the team's favour.
Forwards
Angel Correa
Atletico Madrid wonderkid Angel Correa comes into the squad looking to prove his ability and silence critics who are already starting to see him as a false dawn. This tournament could have a massive say for the upcoming season and he'll be looking to make the most of it.
Cristian Pavon
Cristian Pavon, Boca Juniors number 7, makes the Argentine attack even more interesting. Quick, agile and an eye for goal, the manager will be looking to get the most out of this 20-year-old.
Jonathan Calleri
Amidst talk of a potential move to West Ham United, Jonathan Calleri's mind will be set on international glory. The Sao Paulo striker has already 3 goals from 4 appearances in the Brasileirao and will be looking to add to his impressive tally.
Giovanni Simeone
Giovanni Simeone finished as the leading scorer in the South American Under-20 Championships is touted by bookmakers to be the surprise package with many pundits remarking him one of the players to watch.
Summary
There's depth, there's talent and there are decisions to be taken. Calleri's versatility could see him moved around and rotated and Correa can play on either side. Whoever spearheads this fine set of players can be rest assured they will get their share of opportunities.
Paris Saint-Germain's Giovani Lo Celso is an option in the attacking midfielder role if the manager decides to mix things up in the latter stages of the tournament, including the 4-2-3-1 formation.
An ambitious effort could see this side go all the way and as one of the favourites to celebrate victory in Rio, Olarticoechea's men will be hoping to wash away the disappointments that have come to haunt La Albiceleste in recent times. They kick off their Olympics adventure against Euro winners Portugal on the 4th of August.
