sports
Argentina World Cup 2026 team guide
Lionel Scaloni’s strong, confident squad are no longer reliant on Messi as they target back-to-back World Cup titles
TL;DR
- Argentina's 2026 World Cup squad retains much of the 2022 championship team but faces potential fitness concerns for some players.
- Coach Lionel Scaloni plans to maintain the 4-3-3 formation, relying on a solid defense, dynamic midfielders, and the continued leadership of Lionel Messi.
- Young talents like Julián Alvarez, Thiago Almada, and Nico Paz are expected to make significant contributions, with Almada potentially filling Ángel Di María's former role.
- Lionel Scaloni, already Argentina's most successful coach, aims to extend his legacy after leading the team to multiple major trophies.
- Argentina qualified comfortably, finishing top of their Conmebol group and achieving a historic win against Brazil.
- The team expects passionate support from their fans, known for creating a great atmosphere, with no anticipated violence due to strict US security.
- There's a potential political connection due to the relationship between Argentine President Javier Milei and Donald Trump, though players typically avoid political involvement.