Argentina will face Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. La Albiceleste is aiming for back-to-back titles with a roster that knows exactly what it feels like to lift the trophy, just as they did in Qatar 2022.
Lionel Messi, who aims for another Ballon d’Or, is one of the pillars who fulfilled that lifelong dream in Qatar. As he prepares to square off against Spain, the soccer world is naturally focusing on a fascinating statistical comparison between the legendary captain and Spain’s teenage prodigy, Lamine Yamal.
Within this Argentine squad, a profound sense of championship pedigree remains. A total of 17 players from the historic Qatar 2022 triumph have returned to secure the ultimate prize once again in the 2026 edition.
Which Qatar 2022 World Cup champions are back on the roster for Argentina?
Both Spain and Argentina boast star-studded rosters, and you can select your favorite here. For the South Americans, tactical familiarity and deep tournament experience may give them the definitive edge on the pitch.
World Champion totals. 🏆#FIFAWorldCup | #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/tBiGvcoAgs
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 16, 2026
Coach Lionel Scaloni prioritized squad continuity from the beginning of this cycle, and his blueprint has worked flawlessly, steering the reigning champions back to the world’s biggest game just three and a half years later.
The 17 returning champions ready to defend their title in the 2026 World Cup final are:
- Emiliano Martínez
- Nahuel Molina
- Cristian Romero
- Lisandro Martínez
- Nicolás Tagliafico
- Leandro Paredes
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Enzo Fernández
- Lionel Messi
- Julián Álvarez
- Gonzalo Montiel
- Rodrigo De Paul
- Nicolás Otamendi
- Lautaro Martínez
- Gerónimo Rulli
- Exequiel Palacios
- Thiago Almada
Which players are chasing their first World Cup title with Argentina?
Lionel Scaloni integrated nine new players into this World Cup cycle to refresh the squad amid international retirements (such as Angel Di María), defensive rotations, or shifting individual form. The players aiming to lift the trophy for the very first time are:
- Giuliano Simeone
- Juan Musso
- Marcos Senesi
- Valentín Barco
- Nicolás González
- Giovani Lo Celso
- Nico Paz
- José Manuel López
- Facundo Medina
