BUENOS AIRES: Argentina are taking nine defenders, seven midfielders and seven forward to the World Cup in Qatar as coach Lionel Scaloni’s team aim to build on their Copa America success.
Scaloni announced his 26-player squad — which contains two fewer forward than the roster for traditional rival Brazil — in a video on Friday.
He is scheduled to speak about his choices on Monday. Argentina won the Copa America in 2021, their first major trophy in 28 years.
The World Cup squad has 21 players from the Copa America. Lionel Messi’s team are unbeaten in 35 matches. The 35-year-old Messi, who will play his fifth and likely last World Cup, is joined by other veterans including striker Ángel Di María (34), defender Nicolás Otamendi (34) and goalkeeper Franco Armani (36).