With approximately two months remaining before the start of the World Cup, Argentina have reportedly finalised a provisional 22-man squad under head coach Lionel Scaloni, according to Argentine media sources. The selection reflects ongoing preparations, with player fitness and positional depth continuing to be closely monitored.
A recent concern for the coaching staff has been the fitness of defender Cristian Romero. The centre-back sustained an injury while playing for Tottenham Hotspur and was forced to leave the pitch. Medical assessments confirmed an issue with the ligaments in his right leg. Latest reports indicate a recovery period of between five and eight weeks, which provides a degree of reassurance ahead of the tournament.
Despite this timeline, Romero’s availability for Argentina’s opening match remains uncertain. As a precaution, the coaching staff are considering alternative options. Leonardo Balerdi has emerged as the leading candidate to step in if required. In addition, Marcos Senesi and Facundo Medina remain in contention for defensive roles within the squad.
Argentina are scheduled to face Algeria national football team on 16 June in their opening fixture. Given the circumstances, the coaching staff may avoid taking risks with Romero’s fitness in that match. In such a scenario, Balerdi is likely to be included in the starting line-up. Notably, apart from Nicolás Otamendi, he is the only right-footed central defender currently available in the squad.
Meanwhile, Juan Foyth has been ruled out of the World Cup due to injury. His absence has intensified competition for the position of a fifth central defender. At present, the confirmed defensive options include Romero, Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez and Balerdi, with one additional place still to be filled.
Senesi appears to be the frontrunner for that position. Since joining AFC Bournemouth from Feyenoord in 2022, he has established himself as a regular starter. During the current season, he has made 33 appearances, featuring predominantly in the starting eleven. He has also recently been involved in national team fixtures.
By contrast, Medina, who plays for Olympique de Marseille, is considered to be trailing in the selection race. His most recent appearance for the national team came in June of the previous year, and subsequent injuries have limited his opportunities for recall.
A summary of the provisional squad is provided below:
| Category | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Emiliano Martínez, Gerónimo Rulli |
| Defenders | Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolás Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico |
| Midfielders | Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Rodrigo De Paul, Nico González, Exequiel Palacios, Nicolás Paz, Thiago Almada |
| Forwards | Giuliano Simeone, Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, José López |
This provisional squad forms the basis of Argentina’s preparations, with further assessments expected before the final selection is confirmed.