Argentina Arrive at World Cup 2026 With Eyes on Back-to-Back Glory
Argentina head into the 2026 World Cup as reigning champions and genuine favourites, carrying a squad that has been shaped over eight years under coach Lionel Scaloni. According to The Guardian’s World Cup Experts’ Network, the holders bring confidence, continuity and a clutch of exciting young talents — though fitness doubts cloud the picture after a gruelling club season.
Scaloni is expected to stick with the 4-3-3 formation that delivered the 2022 Qatar title, built on two solid centre-backs, attacking full-backs and technically gifted midfielders. Around two thirds of the Qatar-winning squad remains, with Ángel Di María the most notable absentee following his international retirement. Lautaro Martínez, who struggled for form during the previous tournament, is reportedly determined to make a bigger impact this time around.
Messi Still the Symbol, But No Longer the Only Hope
Lionel Messi is embarking on a record sixth consecutive World Cup and will celebrate his 39th birthday during the competition. While he remains the squad’s talisman and captain, The Guardian’s preview notes a significant shift: Argentina now have the collective strength to perform without him if needed. Players from veterans like Rodrigo De Paul through to younger squad members all look to Messi as an idol, but the team’s identity is no longer solely his.
Thiago Almada, a 25-year-old from the Buenos Aires neighbourhood of Fuerte Apache, is expected to take on a far larger role than the token minutes he received in Qatar. Nico Paz, who developed at the Real Madrid academy before impressing at Como under manager Cesc Fàbregas, is another name to watch. Born in Tenerife, Paz chose to represent Argentina after the federation pursued him carefully, winning his first cap in 2024.
Qualifying Dominance Sets the Tone
Argentina were imperious in Conmebol qualifying, topping the standings nine points clear of Ecuador in second place. The campaign also included a historic first World Cup qualifying victory on Brazilian soil — a result that underlined how far this group has come.
Scaloni, who became Argentina’s most successful coach despite having no prior top-level management experience before his appointment, offered a measured assessment ahead of the tournament: “It will be a very complex and difficult World Cup. You can’t always win.”
For UK bettors tracking their progress, our World Cup 2026 hub has full coverage, and you can follow Argentina’s results via our live standings throughout the competition.