Lionel Messi leads Argentina’s 55‑player provisional World Cup squad

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s 55‑man provisional roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the defending champions ready themselves to protect their title across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The 38‑year‑old forward is projected to take part in what could be his sixth World Cup, although he has not yet formally confirmed whether the tournament will be his last appearance for the national side.

Messi was a pivotal figure in Argentina’s qualifying campaign, emerging as the top scorer with eight goals in 12 matches for the Argentina national football team.

Head coach Lionel Scaloni also selected fellow attackers Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez as Argentina commence final preparations for the competition.

Lionel Messi – Getty image

Dybala left out of squad

One notable omission from the provisional list is Paulo Dybala, who has not featured for Argentina since 2024 despite being a member of the World Cup‑winning squad in Qatar four years earlier.

Meanwhile, Cristian Romero has been retained in the squad even though he has missed action since April because of a knee injury.

Young prospects Alejandro Garnacho and Nico Paz were also called up, together with uncapped defender Zaid Romero.

Prestianni faces suspension risk

Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni secured a spot in the provisional roster but may miss Argentina’s opening matches.

UEFA recently imposed a six‑game ban on the player, with half of the sanction suspended, after he directed verbal abuse toward Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match. FIFA later confirmed that the punishment would be enforced worldwide.

Argentina will begin their World Cup campaign against Algeria on 16 June, followed by fixtures against Austria and Jordan in Group J.