Argentina announces squad for 2026 World Cup

Defending champions Argentina have announced their 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The most important thing in the squad is the inclusion of superstar Lionel Messi. The 39-year-old Messi will lead the team as captain and this will be his sixth World Cup of his career.

It should be remembered that Messi led Argentina to a third world title in the 2022 Qatar World Cup by winning a thrilling final against France. Now he will join Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo as the selected players who hold the record for playing in the World Cup six times.

Coach Lionel Scaloni has selected the squad with a good balance of experienced and young players. The squad also includes key players like Emiliano Martinez, Lisandro Martinez, Cristian Romero, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez.

Lionel Messi has played 198 matches for Argentina so far. If he participates in the upcoming friendlies, his 200 international matches will be completed.

Argentina are in Group J and will open their World Cup campaign against Algeria, with other matches against Austria and Jordan.