Scaloni’s Master Plan to Defend the Title: Argentina Announces 55-Man Preliminary Squad

Current world champions Argentina have officially begun their preparations to defend their title for the 2026 World Cup. On Monday (May 11), coach Lionel Scaloni announced a massive 55-member preliminary squad. From this list, the final 26-man squad will be selected by May 30.

The announced squad includes seasoned veterans like captain Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martínez, and Lautaro Martínez, alongside a host of fresh faces. Big surprises in the list include River Plate’s young goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán and Boca Juniors midfielders Tomás Aranda and Milton Delgado. Scaloni described Aranda as a "great discovery."

While Nahuel Molina is included in the list, there is some uncertainty regarding his participation. Having recently sustained an injury, he will need at least three weeks to recover. As defensive alternatives, Agustín Giay and Kevin Mac Allister have been kept on standby. Additionally, Chelsea star Alejandro Garnacho and Qatar World Cup winner Guido Rodríguez have returned to the squad after a long hiatus.

Key Highlights of the Squad:
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez, Rulli, Musso, Santiago Beltrán.

Defenders: Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez, Cristian Romero, Montiel.

Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Giovani Lo Celso.

Forwards: Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Claudio Echeverri, and Garnacho.

The preliminary list for the tournament—to be held in Mexico, the USA, and Canada—indicates that Scaloni aims to build a strong, balanced side by giving opportunities to youngsters alongside the veterans. By May 30, it will be clear who the World Cup-winning coach will ultimately trust for the final mission.