Argentina are reportedly planning to drop Rodrigo De Paul from the Lionel Messi-led starting XI for the FIFA World Cup semifinal against England. Lionel Scaloni is reportedly planning a change in formation, and the Inter Miami star is set to make way.

According to a report by ESPN Argentina, De Paul will be benched for the semifinal, with the manager making changes to the starting XI. The 34-year-old has not been at his best this summer, registering just one assist in his five matches at the FIFA World Cup.

The decision seems to suggest that the manager will be going for width in the England clash. Scaloni has opted to play with Leandro Paredes in the pivot ever since he got fully fit, with Alexis Mac Allister in the attacking role and Enzo on the left.

Thiago Almada or Nico Gonzalez are expected to be in contention to make the starting XI. Their addition could see a 4-3-3 with Lionel Messi or one of the additions playing on the wing.

The decision would also come as a shock for De Paul, who was looking forward to playing against England. He told the media:

Lionel Messi & co take on England on July 15 at the Atlanta Stadium.

Rodrigo De Paul spoke about Lionel Messi ahead of the FIFA World Cup semifinal, saying that the Argentina captain has been enjoying his football. He added that the 39-year-old is showing the world that he can still produce at the top level and said:

Lionel Messi is leading the Golden Boot race along with Kylian Mbappe, with both scoring eight goals each at the FIFA World Cup.

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