BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Argentina coach Sergio Batista has dropped midfielder Enzo Perez from his roster for a Feb. 9 exhibition against Portugal in Geneva at the request of his club, Estudiantes.
Batista said Tuesday he spoke with Estudiantes manager Alejandro Sabella and agreed to the change. Sabella wanted his club to be at full strength ahead of a Copa Libertadores match against Brazil’s Cruzeiro on Feb. 16.
Cristian Chavez of Argentina Juniors will replace Perez.
Preparing to host the Copa America in July, Argentina also plays the United States on March 26 at East Rutherford, N.J., then opens Costa Rica’s new stadium three days later in San Jose.
