This article is part of the Guardian’s 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a cooperation between some of the best media organisations from the 48 countries who qualified. theguardian.com is running previews from three countries each day in the run-up to the tournament kicking off on 11 June.

The plan

The defending champions reach the World Cup with a group that knows one another almost instinctively, yet several players may not be in peak physical shape after injury issues at the close of a gruelling club campaign. Provided all are fit, the coach intends to select many of the same faces who lifted the trophy in Qatar, apart from Ángel Di María, who has stepped away from international duty.

Lionel Scaloni aims to retain the 4-3-3 shape, built on a secure back line with two central defenders and overlapping full-backs, together with energetic midfielders who excel in distribution. Lionel Messi again spearheads the attack, backed by the potent Julián Alvarez and Thiago Almada, who may emerge as a key figure. Roughly two-thirds of the 2022 squad returns, supplemented by exciting talents such as Nico Paz, who has impressed at Como. Established names like Lautaro Martínez will also feature, hoping to arrive fully fit unlike in Qatar.

“It will be a very complex and difficult World Cup. We have to prepare the players because what’s coming is going to be tough; you can’t always win,” said Scaloni, who holds strong belief in the group yet understands the challenge of repeating the success of his outstanding eight-year spell, already marked by three major honours and possibly extended beyond this tournament. “This shirt is demanding. The fans want to see a team that plays good football on the pitch. From there, we know that the best team doesn’t always win,” added the coach who guided Argentina to their third star.

Qualifying proved straightforward, with Argentina finishing top of the Conmebol standings, nine points ahead of second-placed Ecuador, and securing a first World Cup qualifying victory on Brazilian soil.

The coach

Lionel Scaloni secured the world title in 2022 and has also claimed two Copa América crowns. Though lacking the renown of predecessors such as César Luis Menotti or Carlos Bilardo, he has become Argentina’s most decorated coach and a popular figure due to his modest manner and strong bond with the squad. After assisting Jorge Sampaoli at the 2018 World Cup, federation president Claudio Tapia appointed him for friendlies and later named him head coach despite limited prior experience. Scaloni forged a cohesive unit, gained Messi’s confidence, and now oversees a transition. His family resides in Mallorca, and he frequently returns to his hometown of Pujato in Santa Fe.

Star player

Without question, the world’s finest player and the squad’s focal point remains Lionel Messi. Although competing in a league not viewed as top-tier, the No 10 and captain continues to command attention. The key difference is that the side now possesses the assurance to excel even in his absence. Messi embodies the group: teammates from Rodrigo De Paul and Cristian Romero to emerging talents like Paz all play for him and regard him as an idol. This marks Messi’s sixth successive World Cup, during which he will turn 39.

One to watch

Como’s Nico Paz, highly rated by manager Cesc Fàbregas, ranks among the brightest young prospects. He is one of the talents the federation monitored closely despite his birth in Tenerife, ultimately persuading him to represent Argentina. After progressing through the Real Madrid academy, the son of former defender Pablo Paz earned his debut cap in 2024. “I was born in Spain. I love both countries, but in the end I chose Argentina, the country that represents me the most, because of its people and the way football is lived there,” the midfielder remarked.

Unsung hero

Thiago Almada is already a world champion, yet his role in Qatar was largely peripheral with only limited minutes. Now the 25-year-old, born in the same Buenos Aires district as Carlos Tevez (Fuerte Apache), is set for a central part and looks likely to shine. Despite uneven recent displays at Atlético Madrid, the Vélez Sarsfield product could prove a revelation for supporters. Skilful, strong in duels and boasting a fierce shot, he is expected to fill Di María’s position.

Probable starting XI

What to expect from fans at games

Argentina supporters made their mark in Qatar and will do likewise in 2026, beginning in Dallas and Kansas City before likely moving to Miami. A deep connection exists with the team, strengthened by the World Cup triumph. With Argentina, an electric atmosphere, lively entertainment and packed venues are guaranteed. Although some supporter groups may travel, disorder is improbable given strict US security measures.

Relationship with the US/Trump?

Following Messi’s appearance at the White House after Donald Trump hosted Inter Miami as MLS champions in March, Argentina can count on Trump’s backing. This gains added significance as Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, a frequent critic of the football federation, ranks among Trump’s key allies. “We must create the century of the Americas: Make Americas Great Again, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego,” Milei stated in February. Argentina players generally steer clear of political topics.

Written by Gastón Pestarino, Hernán Claus and Joaquín Zabala for Olé.