This article forms part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among premier media outlets from the 48 nations that qualified. In anticipation of the tournament commencing on June 11, previews from three countries will be shared daily.
Team Strategy
The reigning champions head into the World Cup with a cohesive squad that has developed a strong familiarity with one another, although several players are not in optimal physical condition due to injuries sustained in a grueling club season. If fitness allows, coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to deploy many of the same athletes who triumphed in Qatar, with the notable exception of Ángel Di María, who has retired from international duty.
Scaloni intends to maintain a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing a robust defense composed of two center-backs and two offensive full-backs, complemented by agile midfielders known for their precise passing. Leading the attack will be Lionel Messi, flanked by the talented Julián Alvarez and potential breakout star Thiago Almada. A significant portion of the 2022 squad remains intact, now bolstered by emerging talents like Nico Paz, who has excelled at Como. Established players such as Lautaro Martínez will seek to be in peak form for this World Cup, something that eluded him in Qatar.
“It will be a very complex and difficult World Cup. We have to prepare the players because what’s coming is going to be tough; you can’t always win,” Scaloni remarked, expressing confidence in his squad yet acknowledging the challenge of replicating the success of his exceptional eight-year tenure, which has already secured three major trophies. “This shirt is demanding. The fans want to see a team that plays good football on the pitch. From there, we know that the best team doesn’t always win,” the coach, who led Argentina to their third star, added.
Argentina cruised through qualifying, finishing at the top of the Conmebol standings, nine points ahead of second-placed Ecuador, and achieved a historic World Cup qualifying victory in Brazil.
Coaching Leadership
Lionel Scaloni, the architect behind Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory and two Copa América titles, has quickly become a beloved figure in Argentine football. Though he may not possess the same accolades as legendary coaches like César Luis Menotti or Carlos Bilardo, Scaloni has emerged as the most successful coach in the nation’s history, admired for his humility and rapport with players. After serving as Jorge Sampaoli’s assistant during the 2018 World Cup, he was promoted to head coach by the Argentine football federation president, Claudio Tapia, despite lacking prior experience. Scaloni has built a formidable team, earned the trust of Messi, and is now steering a transition period. He resides in Mallorca with his family but often visits his hometown of Pujato in Santa Fe.
Star Player
Unquestionably, Lionel Messi is the world’s premier player and the squad’s linchpin. Although he now competes in a league that lacks elite status, the team’s captain remains the focal point. The dynamic has shifted somewhat; the squad is now confident enough to perform effectively even in his absence. Messi epitomizes the team’s spirit, inspiring everyone from established players like Rodrigo De Paul and Cristian Romero to younger prospects such as Paz. This will be Messi’s record sixth consecutive World Cup, and he will celebrate his 39th birthday during the tournament.
Emerging Talent
Nico Paz, currently with Como and highly regarded by manager Cesc Fàbregas, stands out as one of the brightest young talents. Born in Tenerife, he was closely monitored by the federation and ultimately chose to represent Argentina. After honing his skills in the Real Madrid academy, the son of former defender Pablo Paz made his national team debut in 2024. “I was born in Spain. I love both countries, but in the end I chose Argentina, the country that represents me the most, because of its people and the way football is lived there,” the midfielder shared.
Key Contributor
Thiago Almada, already a world champion, had a limited role in Qatar, spending only a few minutes on the pitch. Now, the 25-year-old from the same Buenos Aires neighborhood as Carlos Tevez (Fuerte Apache) is poised for a more significant impact and is expected to be one of Argentina’s standout performers. Despite some inconsistency at Atlético Madrid, the Vélez Sarsfield alumnus has the skills, including excellent one-on-one abilities and a powerful shot, to potentially fill Di María’s shoes.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Argentina’s supporters made a significant impression in Qatar and are expected to do the same in 2026, beginning in Dallas and Kansas City, and likely later in Miami. The connection between the team and its fans has strengthened following their World Cup triumph. Fans can expect a vibrant atmosphere, engaging entertainment, and packed stadiums. While some organized groups may travel, violence is unlikely given the stringent security measures in the U.S.
Political Context
Following Messi’s visit to the White House when Donald Trump invited Inter Miami as MLS champions in March, it appears Argentina has gained the former president’s support. This association becomes more pronounced considering Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, a vocal critic of the football federation, is a close ally of Trump. “We must create the century of the Americas: Make Americas Great Again, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego,” Milei stated in February. Typically, Argentina players steer clear of political discussions.
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