Argentina Includes Gianluca Prestianni in Preliminary World Cup Roster Despite FIFA Suspension
Despite facing a FIFA suspension that will keep him out of the first two matches of the World Cup, Argentina has named midfielder Gianluca Prestianni in its preliminary roster of 55 players.
Alongside him is forward Lionel Messi, who has yet to confirm his participation in the tournament as Argentina looks to defend its title.
Prestianni received a six-game suspension for homophobic conduct during a Champions League match in February. While playing for Benfica of Portugal, he was accused of directing verbal insults at Real Madrid‘s Vinicius Junior. Prestianni has denied the accusations and claimed on social media that he was “misunderstood.”
The original penalty was imposed by UEFA, Europe’s soccer governing body, before FIFA expanded the suspension to cover all matches under its jurisdiction.
Prestianni made his debut for Argentina’s national team in November.
Messi, 38, scored seven goals for Argentina during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. In the final against France, he netted the first goal in the 23rd minute and also scored the opening goal in the penalty shootout following a 3-3 draw in regular time.
As captain of Inter Miami, Messi has scored nine goals in 11 MLS matches this season and has a total of 10 goals in 15 matches across all competitions.