Argentina Squad for World Cup 2026: Messi’s Final Bow and a Team Full of Talent

Champions Ready to Defend Their Crown in USA, Mexico & Canada

The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has well and truly begun, and for reigning champions Argentina, the stakes could not be higher. Following their unforgettable triumph in Qatar, Lionel Scaloni’s men will head into the tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada with a target on their back and a mission to retain their world champion status. With the legendary Lionel Messi set to play what could be his final World Cup, the Albiceleste will be keen to make it another historic campaign.

Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez Leads the Line

Between the posts, there is little debate. Emiliano Martinez remains Scaloni’s first-choice goalkeeper, and with good reason. His heroics in the penalty shootouts during both the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup have made him an icon in Argentina. The Aston Villa man is not just a shot-stopper; he’s a psychological weapon during spot-kicks.

Behind him, Marseille’s Geronimo Rulli offers experience and reliability, while Walter Benitez, now at Crystal Palace, is likely to round out the squad. Atletico Madrid’s Juan Musso remains an outside contender.

Expected Goalkeepers:

• Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa)
• Geronimo Rulli (Marseille)
• Walter Benitez (Crystal Palace)
• Juan Musso (Atletico Madrid)

Defenders: Romero & Lisandro the Rock-Solid Duo

Emiliano Martinez-Argentina-20240905

Argentina’s backline looks well set, especially in the center. Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez have forged one of the most commanding centre-back pairings in world football. Add the evergreen Nicolas Otamendi, and there’s no shortage of experience.

On the flanks, Atletico Madrid’s Nahuel Molina and Marseille’s Nicolas Tagliafico are expected to be the first-choice full-backs. Gonzalo Montiel and Marcos Acuna offer valuable depth.

There are also several exciting youngsters pushing for inclusion. Valentin Barco, Julio Soler, and Mariano Troilo have all impressed in club football and could find themselves on the plane to North America if their development continues.

Expected Defenders:

• Cristian Romero (Tottenham)
• Lisandro Martinez (Manchester United)
• Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid)
• Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica)
• Nicolas Tagliafico (Marseille)
• Gonzalo Montiel (Sevilla)
• Marcos Acuna (River Plate)
• Juan Foyth (Villarreal)
• Facundo Medina (Lens)
• Leonardo Balerdi (Marseille)
• Valentin Barco (Strasbourg)
• Mariano Troilo (Belgrano)
• Julio Soler (Bournemouth)

Midfielders: De Paul, Mac Allister and Fernandez at the Heart

Italy v Argentina – Finalissima 2022

Scaloni’s midfield options are enviable. Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister form the core of a hardworking, creative, and tactically balanced unit. Leandro Paredes adds further steel and experience.

Thiago Almada, now with Lyon, has made his case with dazzling performances, while Real Madrid’s latest teenage signing, Franco Mastantuono, and Manchester City’s Claudio Echeverri add youthful flair. Guido Rodriguez, Nicolas Paz, and Exequiel Palacios are also likely to be considered.

Expected Midfielders:

• Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid)
• Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)
• Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea)
• Leandro Paredes (AS Roma)
• Thiago Almada (Lyon)
• Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen)
• Nicolas Paz (Como)
• Franco Mastantuono (Real Madrid)
• Claudio Echeverri (Manchester City)
• Guido Rodriguez (West Ham United)
• Giovani Lo Celso (Real Betis)

Attackers: One Last Dance for Messi

Thiago Almada Lionel Messi Argentina 2025

The attacking options at Scaloni’s disposal are world-class. Leading the line, Lionel Messi remains the talisman. He may be turning 39 by the time the tournament kicks off, but with Inter Miami, he’s proven he still possesses the magic touch. His leadership and genius will be vital.

Julian Alvarez, now at Atletico Madrid, and Lautaro Martinez, fresh from a sensational Copa America campaign, are both in top form. Nicolas Gonzalez, Angel Correa, and Paulo Dybala provide additional quality.

Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho has become a regular in the national team setup, while Giuliano Simeone, son of Diego Simeone, is another exciting name to watch.

Expected Forwards:

• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
• Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid)
• Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan)
• Nicolas Gonzalez (Juventus)
• Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid)
• Angel Correa (Atletico Madrid)
• Paulo Dybala (AS Roma)
• Matias Soule (AS Roma)
• Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)

Star Players to Watch

Lionel Messi

It’s impossible to ignore the impact of Lionel Messi. Having led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup and 2024 Copa America, the iconic No.10 still carries the team emotionally and tactically. His presence alone lifts the Albiceleste.

Emiliano Martinez

If Argentina need saving at the back, Emi Martinez is the man. His clutch performances and fearless attitude make him one of the most valuable players in the squad.

Julian Alvarez

After an impressive rise through the ranks, Alvarez is now one of the most complete forwards in Europe. He can play anywhere across the front line and is expected to play a key role.

Rodrigo De Paul

A relentless engine in midfield, De Paul has developed into one of the most trusted players under Scaloni. His balance of grit and flair is crucial to Argentina’s rhythm.

Predicted Argentina Starting XI at World Cup 2026

Lionel Scaloni is expected to stick with the 4-3-3 formation that brought him success in Qatar. Emiliano Martinez remains undisputed in goal, with Romero and Lisandro forming the central defensive duo. Molina and Tagliafico are likely to occupy the full-back positions.

In midfield, De Paul and Mac Allister are locks, with Enzo Fernandez potentially edging out Almada for the third spot. Up front, Messi, Alvarez and Lautaro should lead the line.

Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Emi Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez; Messi, Alvarez, Lautaro

Final Thoughts: The Last Dance or a New Dynasty?

Argentina enters the 2026 World Cup with a blend of experienced warriors and emerging stars. The pressure will be immense—but so is the potential. With Messi potentially taking his final bow, the stage is set for either a fairytale ending or the emergence of a new generation ready to carry the torch.

One thing is certain: when the Albiceleste step onto the pitch in North America, the world will be watching.