By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Argentina have named a 26-man squad, led by captain Lionel Messi, for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The squad announcement came in June 2026 in Buenos Aires, ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Coach Lionel Scaloni selected the team to defend Argentina’s 2022 title and strengthen attack and midfield depth.
The squad features stars from Europe, South America, and MLS, including experienced winners and rising talents.
Argentina aim to retain the World Cup by combining leadership, tactical balance, and attacking firepower.
Goalkeepers Selected for Argentina 2026 Squad
Argentina included three goalkeepers for tournament stability and experience.
- Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa)
- Gerónimo Rulli (Marseille)
- Juan Musso (Atlético Madrid)
Defensive Line Brings Experience and Depth
The defence includes Champions League winners and top European defenders.
- Lisandro Martínez (Manchester United)
- Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur)
- Nicolás Otamendi (Benfica)
- Nicolás Tagliafico (Lyon)
- Nahuel Molina (Atlético Madrid)
- Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate)
- Facundo Medina (Marseille)
- Leonardo Balerdi (Marseille)
Midfield Strength and Creativity
Argentina’s midfield blends creativity, control, and defensive balance.
- Enzo Fernández (Chelsea)
- Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)
- Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami)
- Giovani Lo Celso (Real Betis)
- Leandro Paredes (River Plate)
- Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen)
- Valentín Barco (Strasbourg)
Attack Features Messi, Lautaro, and Alvarez
Argentina’s forward line carries elite finishing and versatility.
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
- Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan)
- Julián Álvarez (Atlético Madrid)
- Nicolás González (Atlético Madrid)
- Thiago Almada (Atlético Madrid)
- Giuliano Simeone (Atlético Madrid)
- Nico Paz (Como)
- José Manuel López (Palmeiras)
Argentina Group Stage Fixtures 2026
Argentina enter Group J with three opening matches.
- vs Algeria in Kansas City
- vs Austria in Dallas
- vs Jordan in Dallas
The team targets a strong start to secure knockout qualification early.
Messi’s Milestone and Fitness Update
Lionel Messi approaches 200 international appearances.
He already holds a World Cup appearance record with 26 matches.
He may reach 200 caps during pre-tournament friendlies.
Argentina staff confirmed minor muscle fatigue, not injury concerns.
