Lionel Scaloni has named his final 26 man Argentina squad for the 2026 summer World Cup. And Lionel Messi will be on the teamsheet once again.
The South American giants will look to defend the crown they won back in December 2022 in Qatar, when they defeated France on penalties following a 3-3 draw in one of the greatest games in football history. That was the night legendary forward Messi finally got his hands on the only trophy that eluded him, cementing himself as the greatest of all time.
Now the three time winners will look to go one further and retain their trophy. The manager has named a strong squad set to travel to the United States, Canada and Mexico for this summer’s tournament.
The holders will face Algeria (June 16), Austria (June 22) and Jordan (June 27) in the group stages, with pre tournament friendlies against Honduras and Iceland.
Goalkeepers: Martinez the undisputed No.1
As expected, Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez remains the No.1 choice, fresh off winning the Europa League and securing Champions League football. Marseille’s Geronimo Rulli is the backup, with Atletico Madrid’s Juan Musso also in the squad.
Defenders: Experience leads the way
Nicolas Otamendi is once again named, bringing 130 caps of experience. Tottenham captain Cristian Romero makes the cut despite a knee injury that has sidelined him since April. Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez is included. Juan Foyth and Bournemouth’s Marco Senesi miss out.
Midfielders: Mac Allister, Fernandez to lead
Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez will undoubtedly lead the midfield once again. Leandro Paredes (now at Boca Juniors), Rodrigo De Paul, Giovani Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios provide experienced depth.
Nico Paz fresh off a sensational campaign with Como, has been selected for his first tournament (listed as a forward). Chelsea bound Valentin Barco also makes his World Cup debut after a fine season with Strasbourg.
Forwards: Messi’s final dance
As usual, Messi leads the attack in what is almost certainly his sixth and final World Cup. Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez returns after his incredible rise since 2022. Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez is also in the squad. Giuliano Simeone and Thiago Almada provide width.
Notable omissions: Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono will not travel. Chelsea’s Alejandro Garnacho misses out despite being named in the preliminary squad. Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia capped just twice, is also absent.
The bottom line
Messi. Otamendi. Di Maria is gone, but the core remains. Experience throughout the spine. Young talent on the wings.
Argentina are defending champions. They’re among the favourites. And they have one man who has done it all before.
The group stage awaits. The knockouts beckon. And Messi gets one last dance.
Enjoy it. Because after this? He’s gone. And so is an era.
