Argentina’s national football team manager, Lionel Scaloni, has officially released a 55-man provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, notably omitting veteran playmaker Paulo Dybala. The 32-year-old forward, who has not received an international call-up since 2024, faces significant uncertainty regarding his future with the Albiceleste. While the squad is led by captain Lionel Messi, Scaloni’s selections signal a definitive pivot towards a younger generation of talent.
The Exclusion of Paulo Dybala
Dybala’s absence from the preliminary list follows a difficult season characterized by recurring injuries and inconsistent form. In March, the AS Roma forward underwent surgery for a meniscus injury in his knee. His statistical contribution during the current campaign for the Italian club stands at three goals and five assists across 25 appearances. Furthermore, Dybala’s contract with AS Roma is set to expire on 30 June, with no official confirmation of a renewal, adding further instability to his professional outlook.
Youth Integration and New Selections
The provisional squad highlights Scaloni’s long-term strategy, with several uncapped players and rising stars earning positions. Notable inclusions include Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono and Claudio Echeverri of Girona. Alejandro Garnacho also returns to the fold, having been absent from the squad since September 2024. Conversely, long-standing players such as Ángel Correa and Valentín Castellanos have been excluded in favour of emerging talents like Mateo Pellegrino and Matías Soulé.
Key Player Inclusions and Notable Omissions
| Category | Players Included | Notable Omissions |
| Veteran Leadership | Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martínez | Paulo Dybala |
| Rising Talents | Alejandro Garnacho, Franco Mastantuono | Ángel Correa |
| First-Time Call-ups | Nicolás Capaldo, Zayed Romero, Mateo Pellegrino | Valentín Castellanos |
| Returning Players | Guido Rodríguez, Emiliano Buendía | – |
Squad Surprises and Controversies
Scaloni’s list contains several unexpected selections across all departments. In goal, Santiago Beltrán of River Plate has been named as one of six goalkeepers, joining established figures such as Emiliano Martínez and Gerónimo Rulli. In midfield, the inclusion of Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni has drawn attention; the player recently served a six-match UEFA suspension following allegations of discriminatory and homophobic verbal abuse directed at Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior.
The manager has also handed maiden call-ups to Nicolás Capaldo (Hamburg), Zayed Romero (Getafe), and Mateo Pellegrino (Parma). Scaloni reportedly expressed specific praise for young prospect Thomas Aranda, who features alongside Milton Delgado in a revamped attacking line-up.
Road to the 2026 World Cup
The defending champions will participate in the 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place from 11 June to 19 July 2026. Under FIFA regulations, Scaloni must refine this 55-man provisional list into a final 26-member squad, which must be submitted by the deadline of 30 May. As the team prepares for their title defence, the emphasis remains on balancing the experience of stalwarts like Messi with the dynamism of the newly inducted youth.