The latest squad raised more questions than answers before 2026
Lionel Scaloni’s latest Argentina squad ahead of the friendly against Guatemala was supposed to be just another step toward the World Cup.
Instead, it created a huge debate — not because of who was included, but because of who was left out.
Several big names are missing, and the big question is already being asked: are some of them losing their place for 2026?
Some absences have a clear explanation. Players like Lautaro Martínez, Lisandro Martínez and Giovani Lo Celso were not included due to injuries, which forced Scaloni to rethink the squad. 0
However, not all omissions are that simple.
Names like Franco Mastantuono, Joaquín Panichelli and Facundo Medina were left out despite being available, which suggests clear sporting decisions rather than physical issues. 1
In the case of Panichelli, the situation is even more striking: he arrives in strong form in Europe, scoring consistently, yet still didn’t make the list. 2
This is not just another call-up. It is the last big test before Scaloni defines the preliminary list for the World Cup.
That means every absence carries weight.
Players who are not here now are, at the very least, falling behind in the race. And in a squad with so much competition, that can be decisive.
At this stage, being left out is no longer a small detail — it could be a warning sign.
It is still too early to say anyone is completely out of the World Cup, but the trend is clear.
Scaloni is prioritizing form, consistency and tactical fit over reputation.
That is why players like José Manuel López, Nico Paz or Gianluca Prestianni are gaining ground, while others are starting to lose visibility.
The message seems simple: no one has a guaranteed spot anymore.
Argentina remains one of the favorites for the World Cup, but this squad shows that changes are happening.
Some absences are temporary. Others may be the beginning of a new cycle.
And that is why this list feels different.
Because for some players, this might not just be a missed call-up… it might be the first step out of the World Cup.