Argentina Names 55-Man Longlist for 2026 World Cup
Argentina reveals a 55-man longlist for the 2026 World Cup, featuring key Serie A players but notably excluding Paulo Dybala.
Argentina's Squad Announcement for the 2026 World Cup
As the football world gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina has unveiled its 55-man longlist, showcasing a blend of emerging talents and established stars. Coach Lionel Scaloni has highlighted several players from Serie A, but notably, the absence of Paulo Dybala has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
The reigning World Champions, Argentina, who lifted the trophy in Qatar in 2022, are once again viewed as contenders for the title in the upcoming tournament being hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The squad's depth is evident, with key players expected to play pivotal roles in their quest to defend their title.
Key Players Included in the Longlist
Among the prominent names included in the longlist is Lautaro Martinez, who has been a standout player for Inter Milan and was instrumental in Argentina's Copa America victory two years prior. His status as the league's leading scorer (Capocannoniere) solidifies his importance in the squad.
Other notable Serie A players named are:
- Nico Paz (Como)
- Matias Soulé (Roma)
- Maximo Perrone (Como)
- Santiago Castro (Bologna)
- Mateo Pellegrino (Parma)
Additionally, Nico Gonzalez, currently on loan at Atletico Madrid from Juventus, is also part of the longlist, showcasing the variety of talent Scaloni has at his disposal.
Dybala's Omission Raises Questions
The exclusion of Paulo Dybala from the extended list is particularly striking. The Roma veteran has just returned from injury, making his first start since January 25, but it appears that his recent performances were not enough to convince Scaloni to include him. This decision has sparked discussions about the depth of talent available to Argentina and the potential impact of Dybala's absence on the team's dynamics.
As the tournament approaches, Argentina's preparation will be closely watched, with fans eager to see how Scaloni's selections will shape their campaign. The longlist serves as a reminder of the fierce competition for places in the final squad, with many players vying to prove their worth ahead of the World Cup.
