Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni announced the 55-player preliminary roster for the upcoming World Cup in North America on Thursday, aiming for a consecutive title. Despite not yet confirming his participation, forward Lionel Messi (38, Inter Miami) was included in the candidate list.
The squad features key regulars such as Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan), Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid), and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa), with few surprises. Notably, Roma forward Paulo Dybala was omitted.
Meanwhile, Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni, who was handed a six-match suspension for discriminatory remarks directed at Brazil’s Vinicius Junior during a Champions League match, also made the preliminary list. The incident has cast a shadow over his World Cup hopes, but Scaloni still opted to include him.
If Messi takes part, it will be his record-extending sixth World Cup appearance. The final 26-man squad is expected to be announced around May 30.
