Scaloni selects 26 players for the tournament
The reigning world champions have officially unveiled the squad that will attempt to defend their crown. Argentina have announced their 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and, as expected, both Lionel Messi and Nicolás Otamendi feature prominently in Lionel Scaloni’s selection.
La Albiceleste head into the tournament as one of the favourites to lift the trophy once again, following their triumph in Qatar in 2022. At 38 years old, Messi is preparing for what could be the final World Cup of his legendary career, while continuing to serve as the team’s undisputed leader and inspiration.
Former Benfica defender Otamendi has also retained Scaloni’s trust and is expected to play an important role in the heart of the defence despite strong competition for places.
Missing out, however, are Benfica youngster Gianluca Prestianni and FC Porto midfielder Alan Varela. Both players had been included in the preliminary 55-man list but failed to make the final cut.
Among the goalkeepers, Emiliano Martínez — one of the heroes of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup success — headlines the squad once again. In midfield, Argentina have largely kept intact the core that delivered glory in Qatar, with Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes and Giovani Lo Celso all included. Young talents such as Valentín Barco and Nico Paz also earn places in the squad.
In attack, alongside Messi, Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez stand out as two of the leading figures of Argentina’s new generation.
Argentina squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Goalkeepers
Juan Musso, Gerónimo Rulli and Emiliano Martínez
Defenders
Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolás Tagliafico, Gonzalo Montiel, Lisandro Martínez, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Facundo Medina and Nahuel Molina
Midfielders
Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul, Valentín Barco, Giovani Lo Celso, Exequiel Palacios, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández
Forwards
Julián Álvarez, Lionel Messi, Nicolás González, Thiago Almada, Giovanni Simeone, Nico Paz, López and Lautaro Martínez
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