Rosario Central defends itself against criticism over photo choice for Argentina team greeting

Rosario Central has fiercely defended its social media post congratulating the Argentine national team, pushing back against what it calls "infamy" and "indiscriminate attacks." The club issued a strong statement clarifying that the chosen photograph, which did not feature Lionel Messi, was centered on Giovani Lo Celso, a player developed by Rosario Central.

The club explained that the image showed the starting lineup from a match where Lo Celso played his only World Cup game as a starter, against Jordan during the group stage. They emphasized that the photo was not cropped or edited and that their publication was an exercise of freedom of expression, as guaranteed by the Argentine Constitution.

Rosario Central announced its intention to initiate legal actions against individuals who allegedly slandered the institution. The club specifically criticized national authorities for engaging with what they deem a "sports-related message" rather than focusing on more relevant issues. This statement comes after criticism from officials, including Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno, who accused the club of being "hateful" and institutionally flawed for allegedly excluding Messi and Scaloni due to their ties with rival club Newell's.

Despite the controversy, Rosario Central reiterated its "absolute admiration and enormous respect" for all members of the Argentine national team, including captain Lionel Messi, whom they admire as a professional and a person, and with whom they maintain an excellent relationship.