Argentina are the reigning world champions in football. Can La Albiceleste defend their title at the 2026 World Cup?
Today, we will discuss how the current champions might set up for their opening match in the 2026 tournament. Players from clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur are in consideration. Who would you include in your Argentina lineup?
GK: Emi Martinez
Emi Martinez played a crucial role in the last tournament, with key saves in the final, including stopping a one-on-one against Kylian Mbappe.
Though he is not getting younger, Martinez remains the first choice for Argentina and continues to perform well at Aston Villa.
RB: Nahuel Molina
Nahuel Molina is expected to be the right-back for Lionel Scaloni’s side. Although he has not had his best season at Atletico Madrid, options are limited in this position.
He has made 16 appearances in La Liga this season, contributing one assist.
CB: Cristian Romero
Cristian Romero has faced criticism at Tottenham but is still Argentina’s top centre-back. His aggressive style can be risky, but it also makes him a strong presence against forwards.
CB: Marcos Senesi
Alongside Romero, Marcos Senesi’s performances for Bournemouth make him a solid choice. Senesi combines physical strength with good technical skills.
LB: Valentin Barco
The left-back position is currently a weakness for Argentina. Typically, Nicolas Tagliafico would play here, but at 33 years old and injured, he is nearing the end of his career.
This opens the opportunity for 21-year-old Valentin Barco from Strasbourg, who has played 19 Ligue 1 matches this season, scoring one goal and providing four assists.
CM: Enzo Fernandez
Enzo Fernandez, who gained attention during the 2022 World Cup, returns as an experienced player. The Chelsea midfielder has had a strong season, netting eight goals and providing two assists in the Premier League.
CM: Alexis Mac Allister
While Argentina’s midfield may lack balance with Fernandez and Mac Allister—both not known for defending—their energy and skill are significant assets.
Mac Allister’s ball-carrying ability can disrupt defenses, and Fernandez is likely to play deeper to support the midfield.
AM: Lionel Messi
At 38 years old, Lionel Messi is still a key player for Argentina. He may no longer be at the peak of his game, but his leadership and experience are invaluable.
Messi is the captain, holds the record for most appearances and goals for the national team, and will likely be playing in his sixth and final World Cup.
AM: Nico Paz
Nico Paz, 17 years younger than Messi, has been in excellent form for Como this season. He has scored nine goals and provided six assists, giving him the edge over Paulo Dybala.
ST: Julian Alvarez
Julian Alvarez is a rising star in football and secured a spot in Argentina’s starting lineup. His flexibility allows him to play various attacking roles, though he shines as a striker.
ST: Lautaro Martinez
Lautaro Martinez, the captain of Inter Milan, is an outstanding striker known for his finishing and movement. He has scored over 10 goals in Serie A every season since 2019/20, making him one of the top scorers globally.
While Argentina’s defense may be fragile, their attacking options are top class.