Scaloni Trims Argentina’s Preliminary Squad
The reigning world champions are already beginning to finalize the last details ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Lionel Scaloni reduced Argentina’s preliminary roster from 55 to 35 players, making the picture much clearer as the team moves toward the final 26-man squad that will attempt to defend the title won at Qatar 2022.
According to reports from Gastón Edul, the Albiceleste has already notified European clubs about the 35 reserved players, although that does not guarantee all of them will travel with the national team. Several notable names, including Paulo Dybala and Ángel Correa, had already been left out during the first cut, and now the margin is becoming even tighter as the coaching staff decides who will join Lionel Messi in the defense of the world title.
The Final Squad Is Near
The deadline to submit the official roster is May 30, meaning several players are still fighting for a spot. Nine names will ultimately miss out on the final squad and, according to Gastón Edul, Scaloni and his staff intend to have the definitive list completed later this week.
Argentina will travel to the United States in early June with the group nearly complete in order to play two preparation friendlies that will help fine-tune tactical and physical details before the World Cup opener. Some Argentine media outlets have even suggested that Scaloni could call up 27 players instead of the standard 26, bringing an extra footballer as a backup option in case of any physical setbacks.
Buendía Could Be the Surprise Name
Expectations surrounding Argentina’s squad announcement are enormous, not only because they are the defending world champions, but also because there could be some late surprises. One of the names gaining the most momentum is Emiliano Buendía, who finished the season in outstanding form and starred in the Europa League final, scoring a spectacular goal while also providing an assist.
Scaloni has built a very solid and competitive group where experienced stars coexist with young players arriving in excellent form. The big question now is which names will ultimately be left out of a national team that remains one of the top favorites to lift the World Cup once again.
