Argentina Name Squad Without Messi for the First Time in 21 Years, Scaloni Turns to Youth
World champions Argentina have named a full national squad without Lionel Messi for the first time since his international debut in 2005. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has built the squad with an eye on the future.
For two decades Messi was the mainstay of Argentina's attack. He led the side through its hardest times on one global stage after another. Under his captaincy, Argentina ended a long trophy drought by winning the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 Finalissima, the World Cup in Qatar and the 2024 Copa America.
The squad sends a clear message that Scaloni is giving youth and new faces a chance. Chelsea's 21-year-old defender Aaron Anselmino has been called up for the first time.
River Plate's Gonzalo Montiel and Parma's Mariano Troilo have returned to the squad. Palmeiras pair Agustin Giay and Flaco Lopez have also been given opportunities.
There is, however, no place for two long-time regulars and close Messi team-mates, midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso.
The goalkeeping places go to Emiliano Martinez, Geronimo Rulli, Juan Musso and Santiago Beltran. In defence, Montiel, Lisandro Martinez and Nicolas Tagliafico are joined by youngsters Balerdi and Anselmino.
In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez and Exequiel Palacios are joined by the new generation of Nicolas Paz, Matias Soule, Franco Mastantuono and Thiago Almada. The attack is led by Julian Alvarez, with Gianluca Prestianni and Santiago Castro also called up.
Argentina will play two international friendlies in this window. They face Uruguay at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires on 13 November, before meeting Costa Rica at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Cordoba on 17 November.
