Argentina v France: Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 - Source: Getty
Argentina v France: Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 - Source: Getty
Lionel Messi finally fulfilled his dream when he won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, ending his lifelong run for the trophy. Having won everything else he hoped for in his career, the Qatar story came as a fairy tale ending to his tournament.
In the 2026 edition, Messi is all set to return to the tournament for a record sixth time, while Argentina remain among the favorites to win the World Cup once again. However, football is not a one-man game, and even on his best day, the legendary Argentine will have to depend on his teammates to create a complete impact.
Yet, Argentina boasts an incredible squad with a mix of experienced and young talent, which puts them in a decent position to defend their title. This list explores the top five players in the Albiceleste squad who could help Lionel Messi defend his World Cup title this summer.
Five players who could help Lionel Messi retain his World Cup title
5. Lautaro Martinez
Lautaro Martinez - Source: Getty
Lautaro Martinez - Source: Getty
Alongside Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez could be one of Argentina's main strengths in the attack. Martinez may not be a starter in every game at the World Cup, but he can create a major impact after coming on as a substitute.
Coach Lionel Scaloni could prefer Thiago Almada on the left and Alvarez in a central role, while Martinez can be the latter's substitute. Lautaro Martinez was instrumental for Argentina in the 2024 Copa America, having scored the winning goal in the final after coming on as a substitute.
Even if he doesn't get the full 90 minutes every game, Lionel Messi's side will depend on Lautaro Martinez to create those last-minute impacts.
4. Cristian Romero
Cristian Romero - Source: Getty
Cristian Romero - Source: Getty
Cristian Romero will be an integral part of Argentina's backline in this World Cup, an area that the Albiceleste aren't the strongest in. The Tottenham Hotspur captain is specifically good at winning duels and retaining the ball, while also contributing with his physicality.
Romero can pair up with Nicolas Otamendi or Lisandro Martinez to form Argentina's main centre-back pairing. He will be crucial in big games, especially due to his ability to contribute to the build-up game play as well. Lionel Messi's side will depend on Romero for a blend of experience and impeccable physicality.
3. Emiliano Martinez
Emiliano Martinez - Source: Getty
Emiliano Martinez - Source: Getty
Apart from Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martinez was undoubtedly the key reason behind Argentina's triumph at the 2022 World Cup. Highly regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Martinez's ability to perform under pressure is what makes him a big-match man.
The Aston Villa goalkeeper has maintained exceptional form throughout last season and also won the Europa League. Much like last time, he will be Argentina's hope against lethal attackers and in times of penalty shootouts. Lionel Messi will depend on Martinez as one of his strongest teammates to help him defend the title.
2. Enzo Fernandez
Enzo Fernandez - Source: Getty
Enzo Fernandez - Source: Getty
Since winning the Best Young Player of the Tournament award in the 2022 World Cup, Enzo Fernandez has risen to become one of the most promising young midfielders in the world. Although Chelsea had a rough season, Fernandez has maintained decent form and has had multiple standout performances.
Fernandez will be an important part of the Argentine midfield, combining with the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes or Rodrigo De Paul to create important chances in big games. Fernandez's ability to find a way out of tight spaces during high-pressure times and control the pace of the game are among the attributes that make his presence invaluable for Lionel Messi's side.
1. Julian Alvarez
Julian Alvarez - Source: Getty
Julian Alvarez - Source: Getty
Julian Alvarez is expected to be one of the most important players for Argentina in this World Cup. He was instrumental in the 2022 triumph as well, scoring four times to become key to their road to the final.
Alvarez has had an impressive 2025-26 season with Atletico Madrid, although they were unable to win any silverware. However, the Argentine striker recorded 20 goals and nine assists in 49 appearances across competitions. If he can continue with his form, the Atletico star could prove vital in front of the goal after combining with Lionel Messi.
As such, Julian Alvarez could become one of the main players who could help Argentina defend their title in this World Cup.