Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni explains why Paulo Dybala was excluded from the Copa America squad and insists Rodrigo De Paul is ‘ready’ for a top club.
Dybala was not called up for the competition that takes place this summer, and Scaloni explained his decision in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Nobody is as sad as I am. I adore Paulo, but we need players who are fit and ready. He had a tough season and injuries prevented him from getting regular playing time. It was too late when he returned to action,” the coach said.
“Had I been allowed to bring 26 players, I would have called him, but we had to make a different decision. It’s just a pause, his value can’t be questioned. I hope he recovers soon.”
However, many other Serie A players are included in the Argentinean team, such as Lautaro Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul and Cristian Romero.
“Inter and Lautaro have grown together, ending the season in a fantastic way. Lautaro became a point of reference. He can be very useful for any team, Inter must be happy because he can give a lot for many years to come,” Scaloni said.
“De Paul is ready to play for a top team, although I respect Udinese and I consider them a model in terms of management.
“I know he is really happy to play there, but at some point, every player must take a step forward and he is ready. He is a modern footballer.
“Romero is not a surprise, I had already called him for the games that were eventually cancelled due to COVID,” Scaloni revealed.
“He has improved so much. Palomino is a left-footed defender who we need, he has clear ideas and the same is true of Molina, who he has had an exciting development in the last 5-6 months.”