By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Lionel Messi will lead defending champions Argentina national football team into the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being named in a powerful 55-man preliminary squad packed with world-class stars and rising young talents.
The provisional list underlines Argentina’s determination to defend the World Cup crown they captured in Qatar in 2022, with manager Lionel Scaloni blending experienced tournament winners with the next generation of elite Argentine footballers.
Messi’s inclusion immediately headlines the squad announcement as the legendary forward prepares for what could become the final World Cup appearance of his extraordinary career.
Now representing Inter Miami CF, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains the symbol and heartbeat of the Argentine national team despite entering the latter stages of his career.
Argentina have retained the core of the squad that conquered the world four years ago, including goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, defender Cristian Romero and midfield leaders Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister.
The attacking unit also looks formidable, with Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez expected to spearhead the frontline alongside Messi.
Argentina’s squad announcement also highlighted the nation’s impressive young talent pipeline, with emerging stars such as Alejandro Garnacho, Franco Mastantuono, Claudio Echeverri and Matías Soulé earning preliminary selection.
Teenage midfielder Mastantuono, recently linked with a major role at Real Madrid CF, is viewed as one of the most exciting prospects in South American football.
Veteran figures including Nicolás Otamendi and Marcos Acuña also remain part of the setup, providing leadership and experience as Argentina target consecutive World Cup triumphs.
The final squad will be confirmed closer to the tournament, which will take place across United States, Canada and Mexico in the biggest World Cup ever staged.
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