The Argentine National Team has officially announced its 26-man roster for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The squad showcases football luminary Lionel Messi, alongside rising stars like Julián Álvarez and Emiliano Martínez. However, the list reveals a surprising omission: Marcos Acuña, replaced by Facundo Medina.
Continuity and Change in Argentina’s Squad
Coach Lionel Scaloni’s roster retains a strong core from the Qatar 2022 World Cup-winning team, with 17 players returning. This establishes a familiar foundation as Argentina aims for continued success on the world stage.
In an effort to embrace the future, the selection also introduces emerging talent. Young players like Nicolás Paz, Giuliano Simeone, and Valentín Barco are set to make their mark during this prestigious tournament.
2026 World Cup Squad Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the players included in Argentina’s squad:
Goalkeepers
- Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez – Aston Villa
- Gerónimo Rulli – Olympique de Marseille
- Juan Musso – Atlético de Madrid
Defenders
- Leonardo Balerdi – Olympique de Marseille
- Nicolás Tagliafico – Olympique Lyonnais
- Gonzalo Montiel – River Plate
- Lisandro Martínez – Manchester United
- Cristian Romero – Tottenham Hotspur
- Nicolás Otamendi – Benfica
- Facundo Medina – Olympique de Marseille
- Nahuel Molina – Atlético de Madrid
Midfielders
- Leandro Paredes – Boca Juniors
- Rodrigo De Paul – Inter Miami
- Valentín Barco – Racing Strasbourg
- Giovani Lo Celso – Real Betis
- Exequiel Palacios – Bayer Leverkusen
- Alexis Mac Allister – Liverpool
- Enzo Fernández – Chelsea
Forwards
- Julián Álvarez – Atlético de Madrid
- Lionel Messi – Inter Miami
- Nico González – Atlético de Madrid
- Thiago Almada – Atlético de Madrid
- Giuliano Simeone – Atlético de Madrid
- Nico Paz – Como
- Juan Manuel López – Palmeiras
- Lautaro Martínez – Inter Milan
As Argentina gears up for the 2026 World Cup, the focus will be on Messi to lead the team, complemented by experienced players and promising newcomers. The combination of past triumphs and fresh talent sets a compelling stage for Argentina’s journey in the tournament.
