Lionel Scaloni announced the list of drafts for the Argentina National Team for the last two World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, with qualification already secured. Among the most important names are Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and Franco Mastantuono, while the big news is the first draft for José Manuel López, Palmeiras' forward.
The list doesn't include some players who had been in the preliminary squad: Facundo Medina, Ángel Correa, and Enzo Fernández. Chelsea's midfielder, who is having a great season, will not be able to be present due to a two-match suspension after the red card received against Colombia.
The squad combines experience and youth. Established players such as Messi, Otamendi, and De Paul remain as leaders, while young prospects like Nicolás Paz, Valentín Carboni, and Mastantuono himself are beginning to gain experience. Scaloni's strategy aims for a gradual transition that ensures the continuity of Argentina's success in the near future.
Flaco López's first draft
At 24 years old, the former Lanús striker and Palmeiras star receives his first draft to the Albiceleste. López is having a great season, with 15 goals in 42 matches, and will take the place that had belonged to Valentín Castellanos (Lazio).
