Argentina’s World Cup Squad: Scaloni Still Finalizing from 50-Man List

Some Argentine media and social platforms have reported that the 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup is almost set. However, Lionel Scaloni’s recent comments suggest that the roster is far from finalized. As Argentina’s national team coach for several years, Scaloni may have a rough blueprint in mind, but nothing has been formally decided, as revealed in his first interview of the new year.

Scaloni spoke to the Argentine Football Association’s (AFA) studio about the potential World Cup squad. He said, “We have a list of nearly 50 players with almost equal abilities. Anyone could make the team. Injuries and poor performance are factors we monitor closely—there’s no leeway.”

On why the preliminary list is so large, Scaloni explained, “In the last World Cup, several players got injured very close to the tournament. We can’t afford to leave anyone out prematurely, so that’s why our list is somewhat bigger.”

Argentina won the 2022 World Cup under Scaloni, and many players from that squad are likely to feature again. He added, “Their ages are ideal, and they haven’t done anything since the last World Cup to change my decisions. We’ve called up many players, but performance on the field matters more than age. Many from the previous squad will return because they’ve earned it and have the right to compete to defend the title.”

Naturally, Lionel Messi’s status comes first in discussions about the previous World Cup team. The 38-year-old legend has expressed interest in playing in 2026, but nothing is confirmed. Messi prefers not to commit too early and take things step by step. Scaloni recently met him in Spain, where they had a conversation over coffee. “It wasn’t just Messi—I intend to speak with others as well. The World Cup is only six months away. It’s good to understand where the gaps are in the squad,” Scaloni said. When asked if Messi’s participation had been discussed, he replied, “We haven’t talked about the World Cup yet. Let’s see what happens. He said there’s still time, so we shouldn’t pressure him. The decision is his.”

The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Argentina is in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, starting their campaign against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16.

Scaloni commented on these opponents: “Algeria is a strong team with a great coach. We didn’t know much about Jordan, but they performed well in qualifying. Austria qualified under a coach who plays high-press football. The group stage will be tough, and the later rounds will be even more challenging.”