Messi included in Argentina's 55-man World Cup squad

Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina’s preliminary 55-man squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, easing concerns among fans over whether the football icon would participate in the tournament.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni announced the initial squad on Monday, with the 38-year-old Inter Miami forward among the 16 attackers selected.

Despite his inclusion, Messi has not officially confirmed that he will play in the tournament as Argentina aim to defend the World Cup title they won in Qatar in 2022.

Messi’s future remains uncertain

Messi has repeatedly suggested that the end of his playing career may be approaching.

After an Inter Miami match in June, the Argentine captain said he was aware that he was playing some of his “final matches” at the top level of football.

Injuries also kept Messi out of several recent World Cup qualifying matches, raising further questions about his future with the national team.

However, coach Lionel Scaloni previously insisted there was still enough time for Messi to decide on his participation.

Teammates back Messi’s return

Several Argentina players have publicly expressed their hope that Messi will lead the team again at the World Cup.

Forward Julian Alvarez said Argentina are stronger when Messi is on the field, while midfielder Rodrigo de Paul described him as “the greatest of all time”.

Messi scored seven goals during Argentina’s triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign, including in the final against France.

Prestianni included despite suspension

Argentina also included young forward Gianluca Prestianni in the preliminary squad despite the player serving a six-match suspension.

The Benfica player was punished after allegations of using homophobic slurs during a UEFA Champions League match earlier this year.

FIFA extended the suspension worldwide, meaning Prestianni could miss Argentina’s opening two group-stage matches.

The World Cup 2026, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, begins on June 11 and ends on July 19.

Argentina will open their title defence against Algeria on June 16 before facing Austria and Jordan later in the group stage.