The Argentine national team has officially announced its provisional list of 55 players for the 2026 World Cup. Lionel Messi remains in coach Lionel Scaloni's squad, while Paulo Dybala's name is not on the list.
The provisional list was released by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) via their official website.
Messi's presence has drawn significant attention from the global football community. The Inter Miami captain hasn't officially confirmed his participation in the 2026 World Cup, but his call-up reinforces the idea that he will be playing in the sixth and likely final tournament of his career.
At 38, Messi remains a key figure in the Argentine national team. However, Lionel Scaloni is reportedly preparing to change his playing style so that the Albiceleste will be less reliant on the former Barcelona star.
Argentina also continues to be strengthened by a number of key players such as Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Nico Paz.
On the other hand, Paulo Dybala's omission has drawn significant attention. The AS Roma striker has not been called up since 2024 and is now said to be falling out of Scaloni's long-term national team plans.
