Argentina are shaping up as one of the top contenders for the 2026 World Cup, entering the new cycle as the reigning champions. Preparations are already underway, and the official squad list for the upcoming friendly has been released — with Lionel Messi once again leading the team, joined by several new faces but with one notable absence.
The international window will run from Monday, November 10, to Tuesday, November 18, featuring a single friendly: Argentina vs. Angola on Friday, November 14, at Estádio 11 de Novembro in Luanda. The match has been confirmed on the global calendar.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni unveiled the official call-up list, with goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez notably left out — a surprising omission that raises questions about the depth in that position. Meanwhile, young talents such as Valentin Barco, Gianluca Prestianni, and Joaquin Panichelli have been included, adding intrigue to the roster ahead of the match. Here’s the complete list:
Among the notable omissions from Argentina’s latest squad are several players currently competing in the domestic league, including Leandro Paredes of Boca Juniors and Marcos Acuna of River Plate. The decision reportedly stems from a desire to prioritize those playing in Europe as the Clausura Tournament reaches its final stretch.
Why wasn’t Dibu Martinez called up?
Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez was left out of the squad for this international window after already featuring in the previous double matchday while dealing with a minor injury. The coaching staff had planned to give him a period of rest, and the decision was made in mutual agreement to allow other goalkeepers a chance to gain experience with the national team.
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Why are there no players from Argentina’s local league?
During a press conference with the Liga Profesional, AFA president Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia confirmed that no players from the domestic league would be called up for the upcoming international window. “We spoke with Scaloni… it’s important to give priority to the teams competing this Sunday,” Tapia said, referring to River, Boca, and others involved in decisive Clausura fixtures.
Behind the decision lies a spirit of cooperation — ensuring that local players remain available for key matches while maintaining the competitive rhythm of Argentine clubs in the final stretch of the tournament.
