Messi returns as Argentina announce preliminary squad for World Cup qualifiers

As the season draws to a close, attention is slowly turning towards the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, set to begin on 14 June.

However, before then, Argentina will take part in a crucial international window with two CONMEBOL qualifiers on the horizon — and Scaloni has made his intentions clear with a strong pre-selection.

Messi, who missed the previous call-up due to injury, is back at the heart of the squad. Also returning are Valentin Barco and Nicolas Dominguez, both looking to make an impression as newer faces in the senior setup.

Notably, the list includes several players who are expected to take part in the Club World Cup, such as Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez.

The tournament kicks off with the opening match between Al Ahly and Inter Miami, Messi's current club.

Full Argentina preliminary squad

Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Geronimo Rulli and Walter Benitez

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

Midfielders: Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Nicolas Dominguez, Exequiel Palacios, Rodrigo de Paul, Thiago Almada, Giovani Lo Celso and Enzo Fernandez

Forwards: Lionel Messi, Nico Paz, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez, Valentin Castellanos, Alejandro Garnacho, Nicolas Gonzalez, Giuliano Simeone and Angel Correa