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Lionel Messi Included in Argentina’s Preliminary Squad for 2026 World Cup

Posted : 13 May 2026

Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina’s provisional 55-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The legendary forward, who has won the Ballon d’Or eight times, is widely expected to participate in his sixth World Cup tournament, although he has not officially confirmed whether he will continue leading the national team in their title defence.

The 38-year-old played a major role during Argentina’s qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup. Messi ended the qualifiers as the leading scorer with eight goals, making appearances in 12 of the team’s 18 matches.

Several key attacking players have also secured places in the preliminary squad, including Julián Álvarez of Atlético Madrid and Lautaro Martínez from Inter Milan. However, Paulo Dybala, who was part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad, was left out after not featuring for the national team since 2024.

Young winger Gianluca Prestianni, currently with Benfica, was also selected in the provisional roster. If he earns a place in the final 26-man squad, he will miss Argentina’s opening two matches due to suspension. UEFA handed the teenager a six-match ban, with half of the suspension suspended, following an incident involving verbal abuse directed at Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match. FIFA later confirmed the suspension would apply worldwide.

Defender Cristian Romero has been included despite being sidelined with a knee injury since April. Young talents Alejandro Garnacho and Nico Paz also made the list, while Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni added several uncapped players, including Getafe defender Zaid Romero.

Argentina will begin their 2026 World Cup journey against Algeria on June 16 before facing Austria and Jordan in Group J.

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