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Here’s a complete look at Argentina’s preparations and potential squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After being crowned world champions in 2022, Argentina are ready to defend their title in the 2026 edition of the tournament, which will be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The Albiceleste triumphed over France in a dramatic final at Lusail Stadium in Qatar to claim their third World Cup title — their first since Diego Maradona’s legendary run in Mexico in 1986. Kylian Mbappe’s stunning hat-trick nearly turned the game around, but Emiliano Martinez’s brilliance in the penalty shootout secured glory for Lionel Scaloni’s men, marking the pinnacle of Lionel Messi’s illustrious career.

Argentina comfortably booked their place at the 2026 World Cup by topping the CONMEBOL qualifiers, defeating arch-rivals Brazil both home and away.

The Albiceleste have been a dominant force in world football, winning two Copa Americas and one World Cup in just four years. Once again, they will enter the tournament among the top contenders, boasting world-class talent across the pitch — including the legendary Lionel Messi, who is expected to feature in his final World Cup. Despite his age, Messi continues to deliver exceptional performances in Major League Soccer and remains capable of deciding games on his own.

Argentina will begin their title defense against Algeria and will also meet Austria and Jordan in Group J.

With only a month remaining before the tournament begins, Lionel Scaloni has announced a 55-man preliminary squad, sparking debates across the country about which 26 players will ultimately make the final selection.

Goalkeepers

Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez is expected to remain Argentina’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 2026 World Cup. The World Cup winner has been a key figure in the team’s recent success, producing match-winning saves and displaying his psychological strength during penalty shootouts.

Behind him, Marseille’s Geronimo Rulli brings valuable experience and reliability, while Juan Musso of Atletico Madrid is also in contention for a squad spot. Walter Benitez of Crystal Palace adds further depth, and domestic talents Facundo Cambeses of Racing Club and Santiago Beltran of River Plate are pushing for recognition.

Defenders

Argentina’s defense is packed with quality. The central defensive pairing of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez is among the best in world football, combining aggression and composure. Veteran Nicolas Otamendi remains a trusted option and has confirmed that this will be his final World Cup before retiring from international duty.

World Cup-winning hero Gonzalo Montiel and Nicolas Tagliafico offer depth and flexibility, while Nahuel Molina heads into the tournament after a strong season for Atletico Madrid. Versatile defenders like Kevin Mac Allister and Nicolas Capaldo offer tactical adaptability, capable of filling multiple roles if required.

Young prospects such as Agustin Giay, Lautaro Di Lollo, and Zaid Romero are also pushing for a spot in the final 26, showcasing the immense depth in Argentina’s defensive ranks.

Midfielders

Argentina’s midfield remains a strong and balanced unit. Scaloni can rely on a mix of seasoned performers and emerging stars. Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, and Leandro Paredes — all integral to the 2022 triumph — are expected to play key roles once again.

Promising young players like Franco Mastantuono and Claudio Echeverri have impressed at club level and could bring fresh energy to the squad. Thiago Almada has also flourished under Scaloni and could be a crucial player in the tournament.

However, Giovani Lo Celso will miss the World Cup after suffering a torn quadriceps during his loan spell at Villarreal, while Valentin Carboni is sidelined with a severe knee injury.

Attackers

Argentina’s attack remains their strongest suit, led by none other than Lionel Messi. Support will come from Julian Alvarez, who played a vital role in the 2022 victory, and Inter’s Lautaro Martinez, who continues to shine at both club and international levels. Martinez topped the scoring charts at the 2024 Copa America, netting the winner in the final against Colombia.

Giuliano Simeone, son of Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone, has shown great form and could emerge as a surprise inclusion. However, the team will miss Angel Di Maria, who retired following Argentina’s 2024 Copa America triumph. Joaquin Panichelli will also be unavailable due to a serious knee injury.

Notably, several big names like Roma’s Paulo Dybala, former Atletico Madrid forward Angel Correa, and West Ham striker Valentin 'Taty' Castellanos did not make Scaloni’s preliminary 55-man list.

Argentina’s Key Players

Argentina continues to produce some of the brightest talents in world football. Julian Alvarez, now a vital part of Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid, will carry high expectations from fans. Rodrigo De Paul remains a cornerstone of Scaloni’s system, offering energy and creativity in midfield.

In defense, Emiliano Martinez stands as a commanding presence in goal, while the duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez will once again anchor the backline for the reigning champions.

Of course, Lionel Messi remains the heart of the team. The Inter Miami star, formerly with PSG and Barcelona, will be nearly 39 when the World Cup begins. Likely playing his final major tournament, Messi remains determined to lead Argentina once more and continues to possess the magic to change a match on his own.

Giuliano Simeone and Thiago Almada are two young players who could play more prominent roles following Di Maria’s retirement.

Predicted Argentina Starting XI for World Cup 2026

Emiliano Martinez is the undisputed number one in goal. Scaloni’s preferred defensive setup features a back four, with Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero as the central pairing. Nicolas Otamendi and Marseille’s Leonardo Balerdi provide additional cover. Nahuel Molina and Nicolas Tagliafico are expected to retain their starting positions as full-backs.

In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul and Alexis Mac Allister are likely to start, with the third spot being contested between Thiago Almada and Enzo Fernandez. Given his crucial role in 2022, Fernandez may edge into the starting lineup.

Up front, Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez, and Julian Alvarez are expected to form a potent attacking trio.

Predicted Argentina Starting XI (4-3-3): Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Lisandro Martinez, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez; Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez.