Martinez is Argentina's biggest concern

Emiliano Martínez’s fitness is the biggest issue facing Argentina ahead of their 2026 World Cup opener against Algeria.

The alarm was first raised during the warm-up before the Europa League final, when Martínez felt discomfort but stayed on for the rest of the match. Tests on 20 May later showed a fracture in the ring finger of his right hand.

Martínez has spent the past few days on an intensive recovery plan. Treatment began with a splint and a special bandage to keep the finger still, and he has also worked with a tennis ball in individual drills. He arrived at training early to practise with his left hand and with the ball at his feet, avoiding any extra impact on the injured hand.

There is optimism in the Argentina camp. Lionel Scaloni said after the friendly against Honduras that the bandage would be removed as planned, and if the bone has healed, Martínez can step up the workload.

The decisive test will be an MRI. If it confirms the fracture has healed properly, Martínez should get the green light to train fully with the group and wear his gloves again.