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Argentina has announced its 26-man squad for the World Cup, with Lionel Messi set to lead the team. The squad includes goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who recently broke a finger during the Europa League final.
Buenos Aires, 28 May 2026
Argentina has announced its World Cup squad, with Lionel Messi set to captain the team in their title defense.
The Argentine Football Association posted on social media: 'Our 26 warriors who will defend the world champion title.'
Lionel Messi, who will turn 39 soon, is expected to rest for approximately ten days due to overuse and minor problems with his left thigh.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is included in the squad, despite breaking a finger during the Europa League final between Aston Villa and SC Freiburg.
Argentina won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar by defeating France in a penalty shootout in the final.
This will be Lionel Messi's sixth World Cup participation, and he is expected to play a key role in the team's title defense.
Argentina is in Group J and will play against Algeria on June 17, with Austria and Jordan as their other group-stage opponents.
The team will set up their World Cup camp in Kansas City.
Lionel Messi participated in the 2006 World Cup in Germany and has since become a key player for the Argentine national team.
The 2022 World Cup win was Argentina's third World Cup title, with their previous wins coming in 1978 and 1986.
Diego Maradona led the team to victory in 1986, and Lionel Messi will be looking to emulate his success.
The squad announcement has generated excitement among fans, with many hoping that Argentina can repeat their 2022 success.
However, the team will face tough competition in the group stage, and will need to be at their best to progress to the knockout stages.
