The Argentine National Team has already defined the 26 players who will represent the country in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and as expected, Lionel Messi leads the call-up of coach Lionel Scaloni for a tournament that could mark a new historic chapter for the Albiceleste.
Argentina will arrive at the World Cup as the reigning champions after winning the title in Qatar 2022, when they defeated France in one of the most memorable finals in the history of soccer. Now, the goal will be even more ambitious: to become two consecutive champions and add the fourth World Cup star to its shield.
Messi goes for an all-time record
#SelecciónMayor Our 26 warriors who will defend the world title.
Let’s go Argentina! 🩵🤍🩵 pic.twitter.com/TW03A6xGre
– 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) May 28, 2026
One of the main focuses of attention is Lionel Messi.
The Argentina captain was included in the final roster and, if he participates in the tournament without physical setbacks, he will play in his sixth World Cup in 2026.
The figure is historic.
From Germany 2006 to the 2026 World Cup, Messi will have participated in six World Cups.
Consolidating his position as one of the players with the most presences in the maximum international competition (Filed as: Argentina World Cup 2026 Official List).
Scaloni keeps the champion base
The call-up reflects Lionel Scaloni’s confidence in the group that won Qatar 2022.
Of the 26 players selected, 17 were part of the world champion squad.
Among them are Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Rodrigo De Paul and Alexis Mac Allister.
As well as Enzo Fernández, Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez, players who played a key role in winning the title.
The continuity of this core group of players seeks to provide experience, leadership and stability.
It is a team that has maintained a high competitive level since its World Cup consecration (Filed as: Argentina World Cup 2026 Official List).
Surprises and absences
#SelecciónMayor With all the strength of Argentines 💪🏻🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/84Lh03BgxH
– 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) May 28, 2026
Among the names that have attracted attention are Valentín Barco and Facundo Medina.
Those who managed to convince the coaching staff to earn a place in the final call-up.
On the other hand, one of the most talked-about absences is that of Franco Mastantuono.
The young River Plate player, recently linked to Real Madrid, was not included in the definitive list for the tournament (Filed as: Argentina World Cup 2026 Official List).
One of the main focuses of attention is Lionel Messi
QuéOnnda.com
Argentina’s official call-up for the 2026 World Cup
Goalkeepers
Emiliano Martínez, Gerónimo Rulli and Juan Musso.
Defenders
Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez, Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, Nicolás Tagliafico, Leonardo Balerdi and Facundo Medina.
Midfielders
Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Giovani Lo Celso, Exequiel Palacios and Valentín Barco.
Forwards
Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Nicolás González, Thiago Almada, Giuliano Simeone, Nicolás Paz and José López.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
