Messi Returns to Argentina Squad as La Albiceleste Gear Up for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers
Lionel Scaloni has named his 27-man squad for Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia, and the big news is the return of the man himself, Lionel Messi.
The six-time Ballon d’Or winner has been out of action since suffering a right ankle injury during the Copa America final in July, but he’s now back and raring to go. Messi will be looking to help Argentina maintain their perfect start to the World Cup qualifying campaign, which has seen them win all eight games so far.
But it’s not all good news for Argentina fans, as Ángel Di María has announced his retirement from international football, citing a desire to focus on his club career. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez has been suspended for two matches by FIFA after displaying "offensive behavior" and "violating principles of fair play" during the last international break.
Martínez’s antics sparked controversy when he held the replica of the Copa America trophy to his groin area, a reference to the celebration he did at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He was then punished for shoving a camera operator’s equipment following Argentina’s 2-1 defeat against Colombia.
Argentina Squad in Full
Goalkeepers: Geronimo Rulli, Walter Benitez, Juan Musso
Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Otamendi, Germán Pezzella, Leonardo Balerdi, Marcos Acuña, Nicolás Tagliafico
Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernández, Giovani Lo Celso, Thiago Almada, Guido Rodríguez, Nico Paz
Forwards: Nicolas Gonzalez, Lautaro Martínez, Alejandro Garnacho, Julián Álvarez, Valentin Carboni, Paulo Dybala, Lionel Messi
With Messi back in the fold, Argentina will be looking to continue their winning streak and take a step closer to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. But they’ll need to be at their best against tough opponents in Venezuela and Bolivia.
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