With just five months remaining until the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, current champions Argentina are once again being touted as one of the tournament favourites. Having ended a 36-year wait for the trophy by defeating France on penalties in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, La Albiceleste now aim to defend their title with renewed vigour under coach Lionel Scaloni.
Although Argentina’s standout performer from the last tournament, Ángel Di María, has retired from international football, most of the players who lifted the trophy in Qatar are expected to feature in the upcoming United States–Canada–Mexico World Cup. The team’s likely squad is gradually taking shape as experts analyse recent performances, player fitness, and tactical considerations.
Renowned Argentine sports journalist Gastón Edul has compiled a preliminary 26-man squad, based on player form and Scaloni’s strategic approach. This list remains subject to change due to injuries, fluctuations in form, or the emergence of young talents.
Argentina has been drawn into Group J for the 2026 World Cup. The team will open its campaign on 16 June at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City against Algeria. This will be followed by a clash with Austria on 22 June at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, and the group stage will conclude with a match against Jordan at the same venue on 27 June.
Confirmed and Likely Argentina Squad (2026 World Cup)
| Position | Confirmed Players | Likely Additions |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Emiliano Martínez, Gerónimo Rulli | Walter Benítez, José Manuel López |
| Defenders | Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico | Juan Foyth, Leonardo Balerdi, Marcos Acuña |
| Midfielders | Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Giovani Lo Celso, Giuliano Simeone, Nicolás Paz | Facundo Medina, Valentín Barco, Ezequiel Palacios, Franco Mastantuono |
| Forwards | Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez, Nicolás González, Thiago Almada | Marcos Senesi |
Coach Scaloni has emphasised the importance of blending experience with youth: “Our goal is not just to compete, but to build a squad capable of defending our title while giving young players valuable experience at the highest level,” he stated.
With a balanced mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent, Argentina are expected to navigate a challenging group stage successfully and set the stage for a potential back-to-back World Cup triumph. Observers suggest that the combination of tactical discipline, attacking flair, and squad depth will be key to their title defence.
