Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni has released a preliminary 55-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the list headlined by Lionel Messi and featuring six players currently plying their trade in Serie A. The expanded selection, a common practice to allow for late-season adjustments, will be trimmed to the final 26-man roster closer to the tournament.
Among the Serie A contingent are Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, Roma winger Matias Soule, Bologna forward Santiago Castro, Como midfielders Maximo Perrone and Nico Paz, and Parma defender Mateo Pellegrino. Martinez, a World Cup winner in 2022, remains a key figure for Scaloni, while Soule and Castro have earned call-ups after impressive campaigns.
Notably absent is Roma's Paulo Dybala. The 32-year-old has struggled with recurring physical problems this season, limiting his availability and form. Scaloni's decision to omit Dybala, despite his creative pedigree, underscores the coach's emphasis on fitness and consistency. Dybala's future at Roma is also uncertain, with contract talks stalling and potential summer exit looming.
Another notable name is Nico Gonzalez, currently at Atletico Madrid. The winger, who has been linked with a return to Juventus, is included in the pre-list. His versatility and pace could be vital for Argentina, though his club future remains unresolved.
The full pre-list features depth across all positions. Goalkeepers include Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa), Geronimo Rulli (Marseille), and Juan Musso (Atletico Madrid). Defensive stalwarts like Cristian Romero (Tottenham), Lisandro Martinez (Manchester United), and Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica) provide experience. Midfield is stacked with Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Giovani Lo Celso. Attackers include Julian Alvarez, Alejandro Garnacho, and Thiago Almada.
Scaloni's selections reflect a blend of established stars and emerging talents. The inclusion of youngsters like Nico Paz and Franco Mastantuono signals a forward-thinking approach. Meanwhile, veterans like Messi and Angel Di Maria (though Di Maria is not listed? Actually source doesn't mention Di Maria) – note: Di Maria not in list? Source list doesn't include Di Maria. That's another notable omission.
The pre-list also includes several players from South America, such as River Plate's Gonzalo Montiel and Boca Juniors' Lautaro Di Lollo, highlighting Scaloni's willingness to cast a wide net.
For clubs, the announcement means potential disruption during the final stretch of domestic and European competitions. Players like Lautaro Martinez and Enzo Fernandez face crucial matches with their clubs while managing international preparations.
As the World Cup draws closer, Scaloni will monitor performances and injuries before making final cuts. Argentina, as defending champions, carry high expectations, and this preliminary squad showcases the depth at their disposal.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.
