Lionel Messi is reportedly calling the shots.
Javier Mascherano has denied all reports that relations between Argentina manager Jorge Sampaoli and the national team squad have broken down.
After Argentina’s humiliating defeat to Croatia, reports circulated that Sampaoli had lost the control of his dressing room and surrendered control to the players, namely Lionel Messi.
However, despite their disastrous World Cup campaign, Mascherano has insisted that “the relationship with the coach is completely normal”.
“Obviously, when we feel uncomfortable about something we speak with him because if we didn’t we would be hypocrites,” he continued.
“We know the situation is tricky,” Mascherano said. “We have to be united, to express our opinions, and do everything possible so the team goes into the game in the best position.”
Sampaoli is reported to have met with the Argentine FA President Claudio Tapia, who has given the coach his backing.
Presumably though, Sampaoli will be sacked if Argentina do not make it out the group, a fate they are desperate to avoid.
Their match against Nigeria on Tuesday night is a must win for Messi and co. who have looked a disjointed, incoherent mess so far in Russia.
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