Scaloni injects new blood for Argentina’s October friendlies

After dominating the Conmebol 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Argentina are set for their next challenge in the United States, where they will face Venezuela in Miami on October 10 and Puerto Rico in Chicago on October 13.

Head coach Lionel Scaloni unveiled the official squad on Friday evening, once again with Lionel Messi at the forefront -- but this time, with a notable twist.

While Scaloni largely stuck to his tried-and-tested world champion core, he injected fresh energy by calling up three new faces: goalkeeper Facundo Cambeses, defender Lautaro Rivero, and midfielder  Aníbal Moreno. The trio's inclusion represents a bold nod to Argentina's future, ensuring that young talent continues to blend with established experience.

Cambeses, Racing Club's shot-stopper, has impressed domestically despite a tough Copa Argentina exit to River Plate. Rivero, recently reintegrated at River Plate after a loan at Central Cordoba, earned recognition for his commanding performances in defense. Moreno, meanwhile, has become a midfield lynchpin at Palmeiras after spells at Newell's and Racing, finally receiving his long-awaited senior call-up.

Scaloni's decision comes alongside the return of two familiar names: Enzo Fernández, back after serving a suspension, and Marcos Senesi, who last played for Argentina in a 2022 friendly against Estonia. Palmeiras striker José Manuel "Flaco" Lopez also keeps his place following his presence in the last qualifiers.

But there are also notable absences. Exequiel Palacios, Facundo Medina, and Juan Foyth miss out through injury, while rising stars Claudio Echeverry and Valentín Carboni were left out for strategic reasons. The omissions sparked debate, highlighting Scaloni's balancing act between experimentation and consistency.

Despite these changes, Messi remains the undisputed leader of the squad. After sitting out Argentina's last qualifier against Ecuador, the Inter Miami star returns in top form, injury-free and still dazzling at club level. His presence will once again anchor Argentina's attack as the Albiceleste build momentum toward defending their crown at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Scaloni's latest roster signals both continuity and renewal, ensuring Argentina remain a force in the present while laying foundations for the future.

Full Argentina squad for October friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico:

Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Walter Benitez, Geronimo Rulli, Facundo Cambeses

Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Senesi, Lautaro Rivero, Nicolas Tagliafico, Marcos Acuna

Midfielders: Leandro Paredes, Aníbal Moreno, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Nicolas Paz, Giovanni Lo Celso, Alexis Mac Allister, Thiago Almada, Franco Mastantuono

Forwards: Giuliano Simeone, Nicolas Gonzalez, Lionel Messi, Jose Manuel Lopez, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez