Edgardo Bauza has defended his decision to exclude Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero from Argentina's starting XI in their CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier away to Brazil.
Despite the fierce rivalry between the two South American giants, Bauza has decided to name is starting XI early, and has opted for a four-man attack comprising Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain, Angel Di Maria and Enzo Perez.
#Eliminatorias ¡Confirmado por Edgardo Bauza! Así saldrá @Argentina ante @CBF_Futebol pic.twitter.com/0jJM8s6UJY
- Selección Argentina (@Argentina) November 9, 2016
His decision to field Perez ahead of Aguero has surprised onlookers but the 58-year-old tactician explained that he is doing so to add more physicality in Belo Horizonte.
"I opted for Di Maria and Enzo Perez because I believe they will be able to keep up the physical side," Bauza told a news conference.
"Enzo Perez played in this position for two years in the selection, because it is there that he began to play.
"More than anything, we are thinking of the rival."
This match will also see the reintroduction of Messi, who missed Argentina's last three qualifiers due to injury.