Behind enemy lines
No no, calm down. He hasn’t suddenly gone on strike and decided to do a Figo.
As you will know, it’s time for another international break. That means pointless friendlies, no top level football at the weekend and you, forcing yourself to watch England despite knowing it will be the most boring 90 minutes of your life.
Argentina have friendlies lined up against Italy and Spain, looking to test themselves before the World Cup in Russia this summer. The first match against Italy will take place at the Etihad – great news for Nicolas Otamendi and Sergio Aguero who will feel right at home.
The 2014 finalists will then take on Spain at Atlético Madrid’s brand spanking new Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Still in its inaugural campaign, the arena has maintained much of the atmosphere that made the Vicente Calderon such an intimidating place to go.
Despite the fact the game will be played at the Wanda, Argentina have opted to use Real Madrid’s training facilities for three days before the friendly takes place.
Lionel Messi, therefore, will be training on enemy territory. Former Barça teammate Javier Mascherano, now at Hebei China Fortune, has also been included in Jorge Sampaoli’s squad.
