Buenos Aires – The Argentinian national football team has announced its list of players called up for the friendly against Guatemala, marking the return of its captain, Lionel Messi, and the incorporation of new figures. This match is shaping up to be an important test run towards the 2026 World Cup.
Scaloni Defines His Squad
Coach Lionel Scaloni revealed the call-up for the match to be played on March 31 at La Bombonera. This duel will serve as a farewell for the albiceleste team before their fans before the World Cup competition.
Among the most notable novelties is the inclusion of the young Gianluca Prestianni. In addition, defenders Tomás Palacios and Gabriel Rojas join the call-up, which indicates a clear intention to strengthen the team’s defensive options.
The list maintains the core of the team that conquered the world title, with key players like Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister. Also included are figures like Leandro Paredes, Marcos Acuña, and Gonzalo Montiel, who currently play in Argentine football.
Notable absences are Lautaro Martínez and Lisandro Martínez, both out with injuries, and Franco Mastantuono.
The match against Guatemala takes on a special meaning, as it could be one of Messi’s last matches with the national team on Argentine soil, depending on his participation in future friendlies before the World Cup.
Argentina will compete in Group J of the World Cup, along with Algeria, Austria, and Jordan, and their debut is scheduled for June 16 in Kansas City.
Before the start of the tournament, Scaloni’s team plans to play at least two additional friendlies in the United States, with the aim of fine-tuning details for the defense of the title.
With this call-up, Argentina combines the experience of its veterans with the energy of young talents, seeking to arrive in optimal conditions at the maximum appointment of world football.
