Messi returns to lead Argentina's World Cup charge

The talismanic captain is the headline inclusion. Messi, who was forced to withdraw from the March qualifiers due to an adductor injury in his left leg, rejoins Scaloni's 28-man squad for the June fixtures, in which Argentina face Chile (5 June) and Colombia (11 June) as part of their road to the 2026 World Cup.

Messi's return is the main news for Argentina. His absence from the last international window, which saw him miss both the match against Uruguay and the South American classic against Brazil, was a blow.

Nonetheless, Argentina emerged victorious from both fixtures and currently sit atop the qualifying standings with 31 points – seven clear of nearest rivals Ecuador. With only four matches remaining, Argentina's place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada is already mathematically assured.

Beyond Messi's comeback, Scaloni's squad is largely at full strength, except Alexis Mac Allister, who misses out through injury. The Liverpool midfielder sat out the club's final match of the season on medical advice.

Notably, there is a maiden call-up for Belgrano defender Mariano Troilo, while Valentin Barco and Enzo Barrenechea also return to the squad.

Argentina squad for Chile and Colombia qualifiers:

Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Geronimo Rulli and Walter Benitez

Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Juan Foyth, Cristian Romero, Leonardo Balerdi, Mariano Troilo, Nicolas Otamendi, Kevin Lomonaco, Facundo Medina, Nicolas Tagliafico and Valentin Barco

Midfielders: Enzo Barrenechea, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios, Rodrigo De Paul, Thiago Almada, Giovani Lo Celso, Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Paz and Franco Mastantuono

Forwards: Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez, Nicolas Gonzalez, Giuliano Simeone and Angel Correa