Scaloni faces tough calls as Argentina’s World Cup roster deadline looms

Argentina is just days away from announcing its World Cup roster, and head coach Lionel Scaloni is feeling the pressure. For Argentines, the World Cup is far more than a sporting event — it’s a national obsession. The world saw that in Qatar in 2022, when millions flooded the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate an unforgettable title.

In a conversation with Argentina’s DSports, Scaloni offered early hints about his upcoming list — and addressed some of the most controversial omissions. The biggest shock is Paulo Dybala. The Roma playmaker, a World Cup champion four years ago, has become one of Argentina’s most beloved stars of the past decade. Yet Scaloni defended leaving him out of his preliminary list, saying younger players also deserve a chance, even though Dybala — “La Joya” — continues to perform at a high level.

Paulo, needless to say, is a great player. But players leave and there are young players coming through who deserve a chance. His quality is undeniable and we want him. But we always look to the present and the future.

Lionel Scaloni, in an interview with DSports

Dybala omission

Dybala’s absence is the most notable so far, though questions remain about other names, including Mastantuono. But as Scaloni emphasized, this World Cup cycle is also about opportunity. The player generating the most excitement is Nico Paz, who has been a standout at Como under Cesc Fàbregas and is widely seen as a potential breakout star. Scaloni praised the young midfielder, saying the staff wants to “analyze him and see where he stands.”

Still, Paz’s spot isn’t guaranteed — nor are many others. Scaloni admitted he still has roster holes to fill. When asked how he’ll make the final decisions in these last days, he said the only fair way is to judge players by their current form.

Concern for Messi

And then there’s Lionel Messi — always the center of attention, both on the field and in the media. His presence is a given, but reporters pressed Scaloni about their recent communication. He said they haven’t spoken much lately and pointed to Messi’s recent injury: “The first reports weren’t too bad. We would’ve preferred he arrived with no issues at all. Right now, the fitness coach is the one talking to him the most.”

Messi gave fans a scare in his last match with Inter Miami, leaving the field with discomfort in his left leg. The club later confirmed it was only a minor hamstring overload — nothing that will keep the Argentine superstar from playing in what is expected to be his final World Cup.

Scaloni’s contract expires in December

What happens after the tournament, however, is less certain. Scaloni’s own future will be decided once the World Cup ends. In a post‑Messi era, Argentina — now a three‑time world champion — will be searching for new leadership. Scaloni reiterated that he will only speak with the federation after the tournament, not before. The relationship is good, he said, and he hopes to reach an agreement. But first, he must navigate his second World Cup — and finalize a roster that still has vancancies.

Scaloni has until Monday to submit his definitive 26-player squad to FIFA, who will publish the list of all 48 competing teams on Tuesday, June 2.

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