BUENOS AIRES — Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has unveiled the 26-man provisional squad tasked with defending the FIFA World Cup title in North America this summer.
Headlined by captain Lionel Messi, who is poised to make a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance, the squad features a strategic mix of experienced veterans and emerging talents.
The Argentina 2026 Squad
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Emiliano Martínez, Gerónimo Rulli, Juan Musso |
| Defenders | Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolás Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico, Facundo Medina |
| Midfielders | Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Giovani Lo Celso, Exequiel Palacios, Enzo Fernández, Valentín Barco |
| Forwards | Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Thiago Almada, Nicolás Paz, Nicolás González, Giuliano Simeone, José Manuel López |
Tournament Context and Health Updates
Argentina has been drawn into Group J, where they will face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
• Squad Evolution: In a significant transition, nine members of the 2022 championship squad including Angel Di Maria, Paulo Dybala, and Marcos Acuna have been left out as Scaloni integrates fresh energy, such as Valentín Barco, José Manuel López, and Nico Paz.
• Injury Concerns: The squad currently faces monitoring for key players. Lionel Messi is undergoing assessment following physical discomfort sustained in his recent Inter Miami appearance. Additionally, goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is managing a finger fracture sustained in the UEFA Europa League final, while Cristian Romero continues his recovery from a knee issue.
Road to the Title
Scaloni emphasized that while the team’s core identity remains, the squad has been selected to offer "dynamism and verticality" should the tactical situation demand it. Argentina aims to become the first nation to successfully defend the title since Brazil in 1962.
Note: All squads remain provisional until the official final list of 26 players is submitted to FIFA by June 2, 2026.
