Argentina’s defending champions arrive at the 2026 World Cup with a squad that knows each other almost by heart, but perhaps not at peak physical condition—several players faced injury setbacks at the end of a demanding club season. If everyone is fit, coach Lionel Scaloni will field many of the same players who triumphed in Qatar, with the notable exception of Angel Di Maria, who has retired from international duty.
Scaloni’s plan revolves around a 4-3-3 formation, featuring a solid defence with two centre-backs and attacking full-backs, plus dynamic midfielders with excellent passing. Lionel Messi leads the charge once more, supported by the formidable Julian Alvarez and Thiago Almada, who could be the breakout star. Almost two-thirds of the 2022 squad remains, but promising young players like Nico Paz, in excellent form at Como, have been added. Established stars like Lautaro Martinez aim to be in top condition after a disappointing Qatar campaign.
Group J Fixtures
- 16 June v Algeria, Kansas City (8pm local, 17 June 2am BST, 11am AEST)
- 22 June v Austria, Dallas (noon local, 6pm BST, 23 June 3am AEST)
- 27 June v Jordan, Dallas (9pm local, 28 June 3am BST, noon AEST)
“It will be a very complex and difficult World Cup. We have to prepare the players because what’s coming is going to be tough; you can’t always win,” said Scaloni, who has great confidence in the group but acknowledges the challenge of replicating his brilliant eight-year cycle, which has already yielded three major trophies and could be extended. “This shirt is demanding. The fans want to see a team that plays good football. From there, we know the best team doesn’t always win.”
Qualifying was a breeze, Argentina finishing top of the Conmebol section, nine points clear of second-placed Ecuador, including a first World Cup qualifying win in Brazil.
The Coach
Lionel Scaloni became world champion in 2022 and has also won two Copa America titles. Despite lacking the prestige of coaches like Cesar Luis Menotti or Carlos Bilardo, he quickly became the most successful coach in Argentina’s history and a beloved figure thanks to his humble personality and close relationship with players. After serving as Jorge Sampaoli’s assistant during the 2018 World Cup, federation president Claudio Tapia gave him the chance to coach friendly matches and later confirmed him as head coach, even without previous experience. Scaloni built a strong team, earned Messi’s trust, and now leads a transition. His family lives in Mallorca, and he often visits his hometown of Pujato in Santa Fe.
Star Player
Without doubt, the best player in the world and the team’s star is Lionel Messi. Even though he plays in a league not considered elite, the No 10 and captain remains the man everyone looks to. The difference now is that the team has the confidence to perform well even without him. Messi is the symbol of the squad: everyone plays for him and sees him as an idol, from players like Rodrigo De Paul and Cristian Romero to younger talents like Paz. This is a record sixth consecutive World Cup for Messi, who will celebrate his 39th birthday during the competition.
One to Watch
Como’s Nico Paz, highly praised by his club manager Cesc Fabregas, is one of the most talented youngsters on show. The federation followed him carefully despite his birth in Tenerife, eventually convincing him to represent Argentina. After developing in the Real Madrid academy, the son of former centre-back Pablo Paz won his first cap in 2024. “I was born in Spain. I love both countries, but in the end I chose Argentina, the country that represents me the most, because of its people and the way football is lived there,” the midfielder said.
Unsung Hero
Thiago Almada is already a world champion, but his participation in Qatar was almost symbolic: just a handful of minutes. Now, the 25-year-old born in the same Buenos Aires neighbourhood as Carlos Tevez (Fuerte Apache) will have a leading role and should be one of Argentina’s standout players. Despite inconsistent recent form at Atletico Madrid, the Velez Sarsfield graduate could be the big surprise for Argentine supporters. Skilful, excellent in one-on-one situations, and with a powerful shot, he will likely take Di Maria’s place.
Probable Starting XI
Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Acuna; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez, Thiago Almada.
What to Expect from Fans
Argentina fans stood out in Qatar and will do so again in 2026, first in Dallas and Kansas City, and most likely later in Miami. There is a strong connection with the team, especially after winning the World Cup. With Argentina, there will always be a great atmosphere, entertainment, and full stadiums. Although some organised fan groups may travel, violence is unlikely because the US is very strict about security.
Relationship with the US/Trump?
After Messi appeared at the White House when Donald Trump invited Inter Miami as MLS champions in March, Argentina could have Trump’s support. This is even more relevant considering Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, a frequent critic of the football federation, is one of Trump’s closest allies. “We must create the century of the Americas: Make Americas Great Again, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego,” Milei said in February. Argentina players usually avoid political matters.
Written by Gaston Pestarino, Hernan Claus and Joaquin Zabala for Ole.
