Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has announced his latest squad as the national team prepares for life without Lionel Messi.
The announcement marks a new chapter for the world champions following Messi’s reported retirement from international football last month.
The Inter Miami forward is absent from the latest squad, with Scaloni turning to several established stars and emerging talents ahead of Argentina’s upcoming fixtures.
Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez and Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez are among the notable names included.
However, Atletico Madrid defender Cristian Romero has been left out because of a reported injury.
Argentina will face Uruguay next week before taking on Costa Rica four days later.
The fixtures will provide Scaloni with an opportunity to assess his options as he builds a team without the legendary forward.
Messi’s absence represents a significant change for Argentina after his influential role in the country’s recent success.
The former Barcelona captain helped Argentina win the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Copa America.
His departure leaves a major gap in Scaloni’s squad, although the coach still has several experienced players available.
Alvarez is expected to be one of the key attacking options, while Fernandez will provide quality and creativity in midfield.
Lisandro Martinez also returns as an important defensive option.
Scaloni has additionally included young players such as Franco Mastantuono, Nico Paz and Gianluca Prestianni.
Their inclusion highlights Argentina’s efforts to develop the next generation of international stars.
Argentina’s latest squad
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Geronimo Rulli, Juan Musso, Santiago Beltran.
Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Agustin Giay, Aaron Anselmino, Mariano Troilo, Leonardo Balerdi, Lisandro Martinez, Facundo Medina, Nicolas Tagliafico, Roman Vega.
Midfielders: Ezequiel Fernandez, Maximo Perrone, Exequiel Palacios, Valentin Barco, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Nico Paz, Matias Soule, Franco Mastantuono, Giuliano Simeone, Gianluca Prestianni, Thiago Almada.
Forwards: Jose Manuel Lopez, Santiago Gomez, Julian Alvarez.
