Buenos Aires, May 29 -- Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni announced the 26-member squad of the defending champions for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin on June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Leading the squad is captain Lionel Messi, who is set to make his sixth appearance at the FIFA World Cup despite recent concerns over a left hamstring issue sustained while representing Inter Miami last week.

The 38-year-old forward remains the central figure in Argentina's campaign as the South American giants prepare to defend the title they won in Qatar in 2022. Messi had played a defining role in Argentina's triumphant run during the previous edition, scoring seven goals and registering three assists during...