Argentina are coming into the 2026 World Cup as one of the favorites. They are reigning champions (2022), with a deeply talented squad and good momentum. But there are also open questions, especially around aging stars and team transition. Below is a breakdown of what they might look like, what they do well, where they are vulnerable, and what could define their 2026 campaign.
Possible Lineup & Key Players
Based on recent call-ups, results, and squad trends, here’s a likely starting eleven and depth options for Argentina in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation.
| Position | Likely Starter(s) |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez — experienced, proven under pressure. Others in the squad for backups. Reuters |
| Right Back | Nahuel Molina — has been used in qualifiers. World Soccer |
| Left Back | Nicolás Tagliafico — veteran option. sportingpedia.com |
| Centre Backs | Cristian Romero & Nicolás Otamendi. Solid partnership with experience. Romero still strong; Otamendi offers leadership and defensive know-how. |
| Midfield | Depends on formation, but likely a mix: Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, possibly Leandro Paredes (if fit), newer faces such as Alan Varela, Franco Mastantuono, Claudio Echeverri. |
| Attack / Forward line | Lionel Messi (if he continues / is fit) is still in the squad, though his participation is in doubt due to age and fitness. Alongside him: Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Nicolás González, Ángel Correa, José Manuel López (newcomer) |
Formation guess: 4-3-3 when in strong mode; perhaps 4-2-3-1 in tougher matches, especially if Messi is used more sparingly or off the bench.
SWOT Analysis
Here’s a breakdown of Argentina’s Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats heading into the tournament.
Strengths
- Experience & Winning Mentality
Argentina have recent international tournament success: Copa América, World Cup, etc. That heritage helps in high pressure games. Players like Otamendi, Martínez, etc., are used to big stages. - Attack Firepower & Depth
Even if Messi is less active (or missing some matches), Argentina have strong forwards: Álvarez, Martínez, González. They also have younger attackers who are being integrated, which gives options. - Defensive Solidity & Leadership
Romero is a top defender, great in duels, aggressive in recovery. Leadership from older hands like Otamendi adds composure. - Emerging Young Talent
Newcomers like Alan Varela, Claudio Echeverri, Franco Mastantuono are being included — they bring energy, hunger, and allow the team to rotate. - Flexibility & Tactical Adaptation
The squad can adjust depending on opposition: more defensive vs more attacking, ability to bring fresh legs. The manager seems to value this flexibility (e.g. using new players even after qualification secured).
Weaknesses
- Age & Physical Decline
Some key players are nearing or past their peak: Lionel Messi (38 by 2026), Nicolás Otamendi, etc. There may be fitness, pace, stamina issues, especially in long tournament runs. - Dependence on Star Moments
When matches are tight, often Argentina lean on individual brilliance (Messi, etc.). If those players are unavailable, off-form, or shut down, the team might struggle. - Injury Risks
Older players are more prone to injuries; also the risk of fatigue in back-to-back matches. Depth helps but injuries in key positions could hurt. - Transitional Gaps
Integrating young players is good, but cohesion might temporarily suffer: coordination in defense, consistency in attack, pressure situations. - Uncertainty around Messi’s Participation
Messi has expressed doubts about playing in 2026 due to physical condition and age. His presence elevates the team, both in morale and on the pitch; his possible absence or limited role is a real factor.
Opportunities
- Passing the Baton & Rejuvenation
A chance to cement the next generation: if younger players perform well, it sets up Argentina for future tournaments (post-Messi era). - Tactical Innovation
Using formations or roles that lessen dependence on speed or stamina (e.g. more controlled midfield, rotation). Also, Messi might be used in more strategic, lower-load roles. - Strong Qualifying / Momentum
They have been using qualifiers to test combinations and integrate new players, which gives them match sharpness and selection clarity. - Psychological Edge as Defending Champions
Having won in 2022 gives confidence, respect from opponents, and a psychological boost.
Threats
- Decline in Key Individuals
If Messi’s form declines significantly, or if other veterans cannot keep up physically, performance in critical matches may suffer. - Tough Competition
Spain, France, Brazil, etc., will still be strong. Also emerging teams continuing to improve may challenge group stage or knockout stability. - Expectation Pressure
As reigning champs, expectations are high. If Argentina struggle early, the pressure could mount. Mistakes or losses may have bigger consequences. - Squad Burnout / Fixture Congestion
Club seasons are intense; travel etc. for major tournaments can lead to fatigue or injuries, especially for those playing week in, week out. - Messi’s Potential Non-Participation or Reduced Role
If Messi decides not to play, or plays very limited minutes, that could force tactical changes, and some matches might be harder without his leadership & creative spark.
Prediction & Key Takeaways
- Argentina’s strongest path will be when they can leverage their depth: rotating wisely, protecting older players, making full use of the younger ones.
- If Messi plays and is in good condition, he may still be decisive. But even without him, the team looks capable of going deep thanks to their attacking options and defensive leadership.
- Matches against other top nations will test their mental toughness, especially if they fall behind or are under pressure.
