With just over five months to go until the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Scaloni faces one of the most important decisions of his cycle: defining the final list of 26 players who will attempt to defend Argentina’s title.
According to Argentine journalist Gastón Edul, while many things can still change — injuries, dips in form, or the emergence of new talents — the current landscape already allows for a first draft of how the squad could look heading into the tournament. This is not a final prediction, but rather a snapshot of the present.
Argentina will compete in Group J at the World Cup. Their schedule is already set:
- June 16 vs. Algeria (Kansas City Stadium)
- June 22 vs. Austria (Dallas Stadium)
- June 27 vs. Jordan (Dallas Stadium)
Edul divides the player pool into clear categories based on current form, standing with the coaching staff, and recent performances.
The Confirmed Core (20 players)
These are the players Edul considers virtual locks for the World Cup, barring any unexpected issues.
Goalkeepers
- Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez – The undisputed No. 1, a key figure in Argentina’s recent titles.
- Gerónimo Rulli – A consistent presence throughout the Scaloni era and trusted by the staff.
Defenders
- Nahuel Molina – First-choice right-back since Qatar.
- Gonzalo Montiel – A reliable alternative who has played an important role in the cycle.
- Cristian Romero – One of the top center-backs in world football.
- Nicolás Otamendi – Still a leader, highly respected within the group.
- Lisandro Martínez – A left-footed defender who is a starter when fully fit.
- Nicolás Tagliafico – Consistent and dependable on the left side.
Midfielders
- Rodrigo De Paul – The engine of the midfield and a pillar of the team’s identity.
- Leandro Paredes – Part of the core group, with strong backing from the coaching staff.
- Enzo Fernández – Brings energy, technique, and balance; a regular starter.
- Alexis Mac Allister – Versatile and fully established at the European elite level.
- Giovani Lo Celso – A direct option for the starting XI when healthy.
- Giuliano Simeone – Highly rated for his physical profile and European-style intensity.
- Nicolás Paz – Seen as a strong bet for the future and well regarded internally.
Forwards
- Lionel Messi – If he chooses to be there, his place is guaranteed.
- Lautaro Martínez – The top scorer of the Scaloni era.
- Julián Álvarez – One of the most complete players in the squad.
- Nicolás González – Valuable on the left, offering work rate and physical presence.
- Thiago Almada – Part of the Qatar 2022 squad and a regular call-up with high upside.
On Track for the Final Spots (Players 21–26)
These players are either well positioned or directly competing for the last places on the list.
- Walter Benítez – Leading candidate to be the third goalkeeper.
- Juan Foyth – Valued for his versatility if he stays healthy.
- Leonardo Balerdi – In good form in Europe.
- Facundo Medina / Marcos Senesi – Competing for a spot as a left-sided defender.
- Marcos Acuña – Experience could give him the edge if physically fit.
- Valentín Barco – Young and versatile, gaining ground but still competing with Acuña.
- Exequiel Palacios – Familiar to the staff, with fitness and continuity as key factors.
- Franco Mastantuono – Considered a high-upside bet for the future.
- José Manuel López – A goal-scoring option with real chances to make the squad.
On the Outside Looking In
Edul also points out a group of players who currently sit far from serious consideration. In some cases, like Paulo Dybala, injuries and lack of continuity have been decisive factors. Others, such as Matías Soulé or Joaquín Panichelli, still need to establish themselves at the highest level.
There are also young talents with projection — Claudio Echeverri, Valentín Carboni, Valentín Gómez, and Equi Fernández — who may be more relevant in future cycles. The situation of Alejandro Garnacho is described as particular: despite playing for a top club, he has yet to find the consistency needed to truly enter the discussion.
Article based on a report by Argentine journalist Gastón Edul.
