It is officially confirmed: Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 38-year-old superstar will captain the defending champions as they look to secure back-to-back titles this summer. Should he take the field, Messi will make history by becoming one of only two male players to appear in six different World Cup tournaments (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2026), joining Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo in achieving this remarkable feat.
Overcoming Fitness Concerns
Messi’s participation had been a subject of recent speculation due to a left hamstring injury sustained during his final match with Inter Miami prior to the tournament break. However, national team coach Lionel Scaloni has kept his faith in the captain, including him in the final roster despite these fitness concerns.
A Familiar Core for Argentina
Coach Scaloni has opted for continuity, retaining the backbone of the squad that led La Albiceleste to glory in Qatar 2022. The 26-man roster features 17 players from the previous World Cup-winning squad, including key figures such as goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez and core contributors like Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernández.
As Argentina prepares to defend their crown, all eyes will be on Messi as he looks to add yet another legendary chapter to his career on football's biggest stage.