The Lionel Messi era for the Argentina national team has officially drawn to a close, and manager Lionel Scaloni has wasted no time charting the next chapter. Scaloni released a 28-man squad for the upcoming November international window, marking the Albiceleste’s first roster announcement since their legendary captain stepped away from international football.
Upcoming Fixtures Against Uruguay and Costa Rica
Argentina will play both of their November friendlies on home soil. The squad will first face Uruguay on November 13 at La Bombonera. Four days later, on November 17, the team faces Costa Rica in Córdoba.
Emiliano Martínez Included Despite Recent Jaw Surgery
Among the notable selections is Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez. Martínez suffered a jaw fracture on October 17 during a match against Everton. Despite the injury, Scaloni included the goalkeeper in his four-man selection alongside Gerónimo Rulli, Juan Musso, and River Plate’s Santiago Beltrán. Medical staff plan to evaluate Martínez and will not expose him if it is not necessary.
Notable Absences and Squad Regeneration
The squad features several high-profile absences due to injury, suspension, and tactical decisions. Cristian “Cuti” Romero and striker Lautaro Martínez were omitted due to ongoing club injuries. Nicolás González is also out due to injury. Meanwhile, long-serving veterans Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso missed out by managerial choice as Scaloni continues to regenerate the squad. In addition, Nicolás Otamendi and Franco Armani have retired from international duty, while Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina remain sidelined due to suspensions stemming from the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.
Young Talent Joins Returning Players
The roster blends established World Cup winners with emerging young talent and domestic league call-ups. Chelsea central defender Aaron Anselmino earned his first senior team call-up, alongside Parma defender Mariano Troilo. Gonzalo Montiel returns to the squad after missing the September and October fixtures. Domestic representation includes River Plate players Santiago Beltrán, Thiago Almada, and the returning Montiel, while clubs like Boca Juniors and Estudiantes yielded no selections due to their domestic tournament commitments.
#SelecciónMayor Lista de convocados para los próximos amistosos 🇦🇷 📝 https://t.co/SqoaIewEQR pic.twitter.com/Kxysq82w1A
Complete Argentina Roster for November Friendlies
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez (Chelsea), Gerónimo Rulli (Manchester City), Juan Musso (Atlético de Madrid), Santiago Beltrán (River Plate).
Forwards: Gianluca Prestianni (Benfica), Thiago Almada (River Plate), Santiago Castro (Roma), Julián Álvarez (Atlético de Madrid), José Manuel LÓPEZ (Palmeiras).
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