Messi Named in Argentina’s Preliminary Squad as Champions Prepare Title Defence
Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s preliminary World Cup squad, but his final participation has not yet been confirmed.
Argentina enter the 2026 FIFA World Cup as defending champions and one of the tournament’s biggest attractions. Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s 55-man preliminary squad, although he has not publicly confirmed whether he will definitely play in what could become his sixth World Cup. The team’s preparation also includes a disciplinary issue: Gianluca Prestianni’s suspension has been extended globally by FIFA, meaning he could miss Argentina’s opening two matches if selected. For fans, Argentina’s campaign is not only about defending the 2022 title, but also about whether Messi can write one final World Cup chapter.
Players to watch: Lionel Messi, Gianluca Prestianni.
Group opponents: Algeria, Austria, Jordan.
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Read original at Al Jazeera