Buenos Aires, May 11 -- Legendary footballer Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's preliminary 55-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, as coach Lionel Scaloni begins shaping his team for the title defence following their triumph in 2022.

The Argentina captain has not yet officially confirmed whether he will take part in the tournament, but he continues to be a key part of Scaloni's long-term plans as the team prepares for the defence of their crown.

The extended squad includes several Europe-based players, such as Cristian Romero of Tottenham, Chelsea's Alejandro Garnacho and Como midfielder Nico Paz.

Romero, although currently sidelined for the remainder of the Premier League season due to injury, has still been included as Argentin...