The Argentina men’s national soccer team has announced their squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru, with some notable returnees and one surprising omission. Coach Lionel Scaloni has recalled goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez and midfielder Alejandro Garnacho, while also handing a first call-up to Valencia’s Enzo Barrenechea. However, Roma striker Paulo Dybala was surprisingly left out of the squad.
Martínez Returns from Suspension
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is back in the Argentina squad after serving a two-match ban imposed by FIFA for “offensive behavior and violation of the principles of fair play”. The 30-year-old made a lewd gesture with the Copa América trophy and hit a local TV camera following matches against Chile and Colombia respectively.
Martínez’s return will be a boost for Argentina, as he has established himself as the team’s undisputed number one goalkeeper since his heroics in the 2021 Copa América triumph. His presence between the posts provides a sense of security and leadership for the defense.
Garnacho Gets Another Chance
Manchester United’s young sensation Alejandro Garnacho has also been recalled to the Argentina squad. The 18-year-old winger had to withdraw from the previous squad in October due to a knee injury. Garnacho’s inclusion is a testament to his rapid rise and the impact he has made in his breakthrough season at Old Trafford.
“Alejandro is a special talent with a bright future ahead of him. We’re excited to have him back in the squad and see how he can contribute to the team,” said a source close to the Argentina coaching staff.
Barrenechea’s Maiden Call-Up
Enzo Barrenechea, the 23-year-old midfielder currently on loan at Valencia from Aston Villa, has received his first call-up to the senior Argentina squad. Barrenechea has impressed in his seven appearances for Valencia this season, scoring one goal. His inclusion is part of Scaloni’s ongoing process of rejuvenating the squad with young talent.
- Barrenechea’s call-up reflects Scaloni’s focus on the future
- He joins fellow youngsters Garnacho, Nicolás Paz, and Facundo Buonanotte in the squad
- The midfielder will be eager to make his mark and stake a claim for a regular spot
Dybala’s Surprise Omission
One surprising absentee from the Argentina squad is Roma forward Paulo Dybala. The 29-year-old has been in fine form for his club this season, scoring 12 goals and providing six assists in 26 appearances across all competitions. However, Scaloni has opted to leave him out for the upcoming qualifiers.
While no official reason has been given for Dybala’s omission, it is speculated that Scaloni may be looking to give opportunities to younger attackers like Garnacho and Nicolás González. Dybala’s absence could also be a tactical decision, with the coach preferring a different approach for these crucial matches.
The Road Ahead
Argentina currently sits atop the South American World Cup qualifying standings with 22 points, three ahead of second-placed Colombia. The upcoming matches against Paraguay (away) on November 14 and Peru (home) on November 19 will be crucial in their bid to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
With the return of key players like Martínez and Garnacho, along with the infusion of fresh talent in Barrenechea, Argentina will be confident of maintaining their position at the summit. As always, captain Lionel Messi will be expected to lead from the front and inspire his team to victory.
“We have a strong squad with a good blend of experience and youth. Our focus is on securing maximum points from these two matches and taking another step towards World Cup qualification,” revealed a source within the Argentina camp.
The stage is set for an exciting round of World Cup qualifiers, with Argentina looking to assert their dominance and move closer to their ultimate goal. The return of Martínez and Garnacho, coupled with the emergence of new talent like Barrenechea, gives fans plenty of reason to be optimistic about the team’s chances.
