Messi Named in Argentina’s 55‑Man 2026 World Cup Squad Amid Final‑Match Hint

Argentina announced its initial 55‑player pool for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday. The list includes captain Lionel Messi, who is 38 years old and helped the team win the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Coach Lionel Scaloni said the squad gives him plenty of time to decide on Messi’s international future. The tournament will be co‑hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, opening on June 11 and ending on July 19.

Messi’s name appears among the 16 forwards selected by Scaloni. After an Inter Miami match in June he stated, “I’m conscious that I’m playing my final matches, and I’m enjoying them to the maximum.” This suggests the upcoming World Cup could be his last appearance at the highest level. Separately, forward Gianluca Prestianni has been handed a six‑match ban by UEFA for using homophobic slurs during a Champions League game in February. FIFA extended the sanction to all worldwide matches, meaning Prestianni will miss at least two of Argentina’s opening group fixtures against Algeria and Austria. Prestianni made his senior debut for Argentina in November and has featured in recent call‑ups.

Messi’s inclusion signals that Argentina is planning to build its title defence around him, though his final participation remains uncertain. Prestianni’s absence removes a young attacking option for the first two games, potentially increasing pressure on other forwards. Fans and analysts will watch for Messi’s official confirmation of availability and any appeal Prestianni might pursue. The next key date is Argentina’s opening match on June 16 in Kansas City, where the squad’s composition will be tested.