Lionel Scaloni kept things deliberately vague when discussing Argentina’s final World Cup 2026 roster, hinting that several key decisions are still unresolved.

“We still have doubts that we will resolve in the coming days,” the Argentina head coach said, offering little clarity as the defending champions prepare to finalize their squad.

Among the biggest question marks is Franco Mastantuono. The Real Madrid teenager is at real risk of missing the final cut, with the decision expected before Sunday.

Final Argentina roster decisions take shape

Scaloni is carefully weighing each case one by one as he narrows down his options. After the season ended, players reported to the Lionel Andrés Messi training complex in Buenos Aires, joining others from the preliminary squad as they fight for a place in Argentina’s final 26-man roster.

Since Monday, the coaching staff has been reviewing every situation in detail. Scaloni has said selection will come down primarily to “player performance and arriving in the best possible condition.”

On that front, Mastantuono has made a strong case. His physical condition is reportedly excellent, close to top level, but that alone may not be enough. If he is left out, it would be a technical decision rather than a medical one.

Long-term project versus immediate need

The young attacker is viewed internally as a future leader for Argentina, but not necessarily for this current cycle.

Within the Argentine Football Association, there are differing opinions. Some believe Mastantuono should be eased into the setup gradually, allowing him to develop without pressure. Others think he should be integrated immediately so he can adapt to the national team structure as soon as possible.

Injury concerns complicate selection

Injuries are also playing a major role in the final decision-making process, and concern is growing within the camp.

Three players are effectively on the edge: Nahuel Molina, Nico González and Gonzalo Montiel. Montiel is the biggest doubt after suffering a quadriceps tear earlier this month.

All three have been training individually, working through tailored programs designed to manage their respective issues.

The outlook is more positive for Atlético Madrid duo Molina and González. González has been sidelined since late April due to a muscle injury, while Molina picked up discomfort toward the end of the league season.

Montiel, however, appears unlikely to make the final squad unless there is a significant turnaround.

When will Argentina’s final World Cup 2026 roster be announced?

If any of those players are ruled out, Mastantuono’s chances improve significantly. He is currently among a group of alternates that also includes Emi Buendía, Matías Soulé and Agustín Giay.

Scaloni is expected to make his final decisions before the end of the weekend. Whether Mastantuono makes the cut or not remains unresolved, but for now, there is still room for hope.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that of this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.