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| Team Argentina |
Defending world champions Argentina have officially unveiled their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Lionel Scaloni names a powerful and balanced team to defend the title in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Albiceleste head into the tournament as one of the favourites after winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and continuing their dominance in international football under Scaloni. With a squad filled with experienced champions and exciting young stars, Argentina are aiming to win back-to-back World Cup titles for the first time in the nation’s history.
One of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement is the absence of Lionel Messi, marking what appears to be the beginning of a new era for the national team. In Messi’s absence, players such as Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Enzo Fernández and Alejandro Garnacho are expected to carry Argentina’s attacking responsibility on the global stage.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez remains a key figure for the Albiceleste after his heroic performances in recent international tournaments. The Aston Villa shot-stopper is once again expected to lead the defence alongside experienced names such as Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez and Nicolás Otamendi.
Argentina 2026 FIFA World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers
Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa / England)
Gerónimo Rulli (Ajax Amsterdam / Netherlands)
Walter Benítez (PSV Eindhoven / Netherlands)
Defenders
Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur / England)
Lisandro Martínez (Manchester United / England)
Nicolás Otamendi (Benfica / Portugal)
Nahuel Molina (Atlético Madrid / Spain)
Nicolás Tagliafico (Olympique Lyonnais / France)
Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate / Argentina)
Leonardo Balerdi (Olympique Marseille / France)
Marcos Acuña (River Plate / Argentina)
Lucas Martínez Quarta (Fiorentina / Italy)
Marcos Senesi (AFC Bournemouth / England)
Midfielders
Rodrigo De Paul (Atlético Madrid / Spain)
Enzo Fernández (Chelsea FC / England)
Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool FC / England)
Leandro Paredes (AS Roma / Italy)
Thiago Almada (Olympique Lyonnais / France)
Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen / Germany)
Nico Paz (Real Madrid / Spain)
Attackers
Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United / England)
Julián Álvarez (Manchester City / England)
Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan / Italy)
Nicolás González (Juventus / Italy)
Paulo Dybala (AS Roma / Italy)
Giuliano Simeone (Atlético Madrid / Spain)
Thiago Almada (Olympique Lyonnais / France)
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| Team Argentina |
Argentina’s squad combines experience, technical quality, creativity and attacking depth. Midfield stars Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister are expected to control games with their energy and passing ability, while Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez will likely lead the attack.
Young talents Alejandro Garnacho, Nico Paz and Giuliano Simeone also represent the future of Argentine football and could play major roles during the tournament.
Coach Lionel Scaloni has once again built a squad capable of competing against the best nations in world football. Since taking charge, Scaloni has transformed Argentina into one of the most organized and mentally strong teams internationally, winning the Copa América and FIFA World Cup within a short period.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico, will be the first edition to feature 48 teams. Argentina are expected to be among the strongest contenders as they attempt to successfully defend their crown and continue their golden era in international football.
