This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media organizations from the 48 qualifying countries. As the tournament approaches, previews from three nations are being released daily, leading up to the opening match on June 11.
Preparation for the Tournament
The defending champions arrive at the World Cup with a squad that has extensive familiarity with one another, though some players may not be in optimal condition due to injuries sustained during an intense club season. Should all players regain fitness, coach Lionel Scaloni is likely to deploy a lineup similar to that which triumphed in Qatar, with the notable absence of Ángel Di María, who has retired from international duty.
Scaloni intends to maintain a 4-3-3 formation, relying on a robust defense featuring two central defenders and two offensive full-backs, along with agile midfielders known for their passing abilities. Lionel Messi will once again spearhead the attack, flanked by the talented Julián Alvarez and the promising Thiago Almada, who is expected to shine. While nearly two-thirds of the squad from 2022 remains intact, it now also boasts emerging talents like Nico Paz, who has excelled at Como. Established players such as Lautaro Martínez also aim to be in peak form for this World Cup, a goal he fell short of achieving in Qatar.
“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 remarked. He expresses confidence in his squad but acknowledges the challenge of replicating the success of his eight-year tenure, which has already yielded three major trophies and may extend following the World Cup. “This shirt is demanding. The fans want to see a team that plays good football on the pitch. From there, we know that the best team doesn’t always win,” said the coach who guided Argentina to their third star.
Argentina navigated the qualifying rounds with ease, finishing at the top of the Conmebol standings, nine points ahead of Ecuador. This campaign included a historic World Cup qualifying victory in Brazil.
Coaching Leadership
Lionel Scaloni led the team to a World Cup victory in 2022 and has also secured two Copa América titles. Although he may not possess the same prestige as legendary managers like César Luis Menotti or Carlos Bilardo, he has quickly become Argentina’s most successful coach and is cherished for his down-to-earth demeanor and strong rapport with players. Following his role as Jorge Sampaoli’s assistant during the 2018 World Cup, Scaloni was entrusted by the Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia to oversee friendly matches before being appointed head coach, despite lacking prior experience. He has built a cohesive team, earned Messi’s trust, and is now facilitating a transition. Scaloni resides in Mallorca, frequently visiting his hometown of Pujato in Santa Fe.
Star Player
Undoubtedly, Lionel Messi is regarded as the world’s finest player and the centerpiece of the team. Although he currently plays in a league perceived as less prestigious, the No. 10 and captain remains the focal point for his teammates. The evolution lies in the team’s newfound confidence, allowing them to perform effectively even in Messi’s absence. He embodies the spirit of the squad: players from Rodrigo De Paul to Cristian Romero, along with younger stars like Paz, all look up to him. This will mark Messi’s record sixth consecutive World Cup, coinciding with his 39th birthday during the tournament.
Emerging Talent
Nico Paz, a standout at Como, has garnered praise from his club manager, Cesc Fàbregas, as one of the most gifted young players on the roster. Born in Tenerife, he was closely monitored by the federation before ultimately choosing to represent Argentina. After developing in the Real Madrid academy, the son of former center-back Pablo Paz made his international debut 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 explained.
Key Contributor
Thiago Almada, a current world champion, had a limited role in Qatar, featuring for a mere handful of minutes. Now, at 25, he is set to take on a prominent position and is likely to be a standout performer for Argentina. Despite some inconsistency in his recent form at Atlético Madrid, the Vélez Sarsfield product has the potential to surprise Argentine fans. Skilled and formidable in one-on-one encounters, he is expected to fill Di María’s shoes.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Argentinian supporters made their presence felt in Qatar and are anticipated to do so again in 2026, starting in Dallas and Kansas City, and likely continuing in Miami. There exists a strong bond with the team, particularly following their World Cup victory. Fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere characterized by entertainment and packed stadiums. While some organized fan groups may travel, incidents of violence are unlikely given the strict security measures in the U.S.
Political Connections
Messi’s presence at the White House during Donald Trump’s invitation to Inter Miami after their MLS championship win in March indicates a potential alignment with Trump. This connection gains significance considering Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, a vocal critic of the football federation, is an ally of Trump. “We must create the century of the Americas: Make Americas Great Again, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego,” Milei stated in February. Typically, Argentina players steer clear of political discussions.
- World Cup 2026: Guardian Experts’ Network
- Argentina
- World Cup 2026
- World Cup
- features
