Argentina: Lionel Scaloni Unveils First Squad of the Post-Messi Era

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Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has announced a 28-player squad for the national team's upcoming international friendlies against Uruguay and Costa Rica, marking the beginning of a new chapter following Lionel Messi's retirement from international football.

The announcement represents a significant moment for the Albiceleste, which must now prepare for its future without the player who defined an entire generation of Argentine football. Messi's departure brings an end to more than two decades of international service, during which he helped the country secure several major international honours.

Argentina Prepares for a New Chapter

The two friendly encounters will take place in November, bringing Argentina's international programme for 2026 to a close.

The reigning world football powerhouse, which finished as runner-up at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will host Uruguay on November 13 at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires. Four days later, on November 17, the team will face Costa Rica at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Córdoba.

Beyond their sporting importance, these matches will provide an opportunity for Scaloni to assess the team's depth and explore new tactical combinations as Argentina moves into the post-Messi period.

Injuries and Notable Absences Reshape the Squad

Several familiar names are missing from the latest selection, including key members of Argentina's recent successful generations.

Defender Cristian Romero and striker Lautaro Martínez have been ruled out because of injuries. Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso are also absent from the list.

Their unavailability creates opportunities for other players to demonstrate their value and potentially secure more prominent roles within the national team.

New Faces and Returning Players

One of the most notable developments is the first senior international call-up for Chelsea defender Aaron Anselmino, who has attracted the coaching staff's attention with his potential.

Mariano Troilo, currently playing for Parma, has also earned another opportunity after receiving his first national team invitation in 2025 without making his international debut.

Meanwhile, Gonzalo Montiel returns to the squad. The World Cup-winning defender brings valuable international experience to a group that combines established figures with emerging talent.

Scaloni has retained several important players, including Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández and Julián Álvarez. Young prospects such as Nicolás Paz, Franco Mastantuono, Gianluca Prestianni and Valentín Barco are also included, highlighting the coach's intention to maintain continuity while gradually introducing new options.

Emiliano Martínez's Fitness Remains Under Watch

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is another player attracting attention. Included among the four goalkeepers selected, the Chelsea shot-stopper is still recovering from a fractured jaw sustained in October, which required surgery.

His availability for the November fixtures will depend on his recovery progress and medical assessment.

Messi's Departure Marks the End of an Era

Argentina's upcoming fixtures will be its first since Messi's final appearance for the national team on October 6, when the Albiceleste defeated Benin 3-0 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

At 39, the former captain leaves behind an extraordinary international legacy, highlighted by Argentina's 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph and Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024.

His departure represents more than the loss of an influential player. It signals a generational transition for a national team that must preserve its competitive identity while developing a new leadership structure.

For Scaloni, the November friendlies offer an initial opportunity to test the squad's adaptability and begin shaping Argentina's next era without its most iconic figure.