Key Takeaways
- Responding to speculation that Tino Libaak could partner Ale Galán, Fernando Belasteguín said: “He can’t go from where he is to fighting for the number one spot; he needs a year at a mid-level.”
- Belasteguín highlighted Libaak’s top-level attacking qualities, noting that “Tino is a player who has the shots to hurt the best up front.”
- However, Bela warned of the dangers of moving to the highest level prematurely, saying Libaak “has more to lose than to gain with that leap.”
Fernando Belasteguín calls for patience with Tino Libaak
Both Tino Libaak and Gonza Alfonso have been selected to represent Argentina as the country prepares to defend its world title in Qatar. The pair head into the event in outstanding form after emerging as one of this campaign’s most exciting partnerships.
At 19, Libaak helped Argentina overcome Spain and capture the championship in Doha, a breakthrough that placed him firmly in the spotlight. His progress was then disrupted by recurring back problems during the 2025 campaign, before a challenging opening to 2026 with Álex Chozas. Since joining forces with Alfonso, however, the Villa Mercedes player has rediscovered his best level. His offensive style and improved results have now fuelled speculation about a possible partnership with Ale Galán.
Reaching the top takes time
Amid the mounting enthusiasm, Fernando Belasteguín, who partnered Libaak in 2024, gave a measured assessment of the youngster’s progress in an interview with ‘Veinte Diez’.
According to Bela, Libaak must still pass through several phases of his development before he is ready to compete among the sport’s very best.
“I see him in a year or a year and a half. He can’t go from where he is to fighting for the number one spot; he needs a year at a mid-level,” Belasteguín said.
Bela praised Libaak’s exceptional ability at the net but cautioned against accelerating his development by pairing him with an established star such as Galán.
“But for me, Tino is a player who has the shots to hurt the best up front,” Bela remarked.
Belasteguín also warned that exposing the young Argentine to major expectations too early could have damaging effects.
“The thing is, right now he’s not ready for Galán to put him in that position; he has more to lose than to gain with that leap,” Bela continued.
Argentina ready themselves for Qatar title defence
Libaak and Alfonso have returned to form at an ideal moment for Argentina, with the world championship in Qatar approaching. National-team captains Rodri Ovide and Gaby Reca are keeping a close watch on the duo while considering their lineup options.
Two years after his standout performances in Doha, Libaak has regained top form. His resurgence gives Argentina considerable depth as they approach the international calendar’s toughest assignment.
Galan and Chingotto: Milan results and ranking
Galan and Chingotto hold a 70-13 win-loss record as a team in 2026. In their most recent match, played on the 17th of October, they lost the semifinal 6-0 2-6 2-6 to Augsburger (world no.6) and Lebron (world no.5).
