Javier Mascherano conceded the loss of goalkeeper Sergio Romero to injury is a blow to Argentina ahead of the World Cup.
The Manchester United keeper was expected to be Jorge Sampaoli's preferred option, but a knee problem has ended his hopes of playing in Russia.
Tigres UANL's Nahuel Guzman has been called up to join Willy Caballero of Chelsea and River Plate's Franco Armani as the goalkeeping options.
"Romero's injury represents a big low, not as a footballer, but as a man," said Mascherano, who will retire from international football after the tournament.
"He has been the leader of the team for 10 years.