Argentina's national team arrives at the 2026 World Cup as defending champions, boasting a squad that has developed deep familiarity over years of success. However, several players are not in peak physical condition after a demanding club season, raising fitness concerns. Coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to field many of the same players who triumphed in Qatar, with the notable exception of Ángel Di María, who has retired from international duty.
Scaloni's Plan and Formation
Scaloni will stick with the 4-3-3 formation that brought glory, featuring a solid defence with two centre-backs and attacking full-backs, complemented by dynamic midfielders with excellent passing ability. Lionel Messi remains the focal point, supported by Julián Alvarez and Thiago Almada, who could emerge as a breakout star. Nearly two-thirds of the 2022 squad remains, but promising young talents like Nico Paz, in excellent form at Como, have been integrated. Established stars such as Lautaro Martínez aim to be in top condition, something he lacked in Qatar.
Scaloni's Outlook
"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," Scaloni said. The coach, who has led Argentina to three major trophies in eight years, acknowledges the challenge of repeating success. "This shirt is demanding. The fans want to see a team that plays good football. From there, we know that the best team doesn't always win." Argentina breezed through qualifying, finishing top of the Conmebol section, nine points clear of Ecuador, including a historic World Cup qualifying win in Brazil.
The Coach: Lionel Scaloni
Scaloni became world champion in 2022 and has also won two Copa América titles. Despite lacking the prestige of predecessors like César Luis Menotti or Carlos Bilardo, he has become the most successful coach in Argentina's history, beloved for his humble personality and close player relationships. After serving as Jorge Sampaoli's assistant during the 2018 World Cup, federation president Claudio Tapia gave him the chance to coach friendly matches, eventually confirming him as head coach despite no prior 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: Lionel Messi
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: Nico Paz
Como's Nico Paz, highly praised by his club manager Cesc Fàbregas, is one of the most talented youngsters on show. He is one of the prospects the federation followed carefully despite being born 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
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 will surely be one of Argentina's standout players. Despite his inconsistent recent form at Atlético Madrid, the Vélez Sarsfield graduate could be the big surprise for Argentinian supporters. Skilful, excellent in one-on-one situations, and with a powerful shot, he will probably take Di María's place.
Probable Starting XI
Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Marcos Acuña or Nicolás Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Julián 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 they know 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, you could say Argentina 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 getting involved in political matters.
Written by Gastón Pestarino, Hernán Claus and Joaquín Zabala for Olé.
