The Future of Argentina: Young Guns, Ruthless Scaloni & Ideal XI for 2026

There’s something special brewing in Argentina — and it’s not just about Messi anymore. While the legends still command respect, the rise of a new generation is undeniable.

Shortest90
June 15, 2025

If you’re an Argentina fan like me, the excitement is real. But with excitement comes responsibility — because Lionel Scaloni is ruthless, and there’s no space for slackers or hype merchants. It’s merit or bust.

All Eyes on Garnacho — But the Next Move Is Crucial

Let’s start with Alejandro Garnacho. The talent is there, the flair is undeniable, and the hunger is visible. But if he doesn’t work off the ball, if he doesn’t defend with intent, Scaloni won’t pick him. It’s that simple.

Garnacho will turn 21 or 22 next year, and this is a make-or-break phase. His next club move is critical. He can’t afford to stagnate or sit on the bench. Regular minutes and tactical maturity will determine whether he’s flying to North America in 2026 — or watching from home.

Franco Mastantuono — The Crown Jewel

Now let me talk about the player I’m most excited about — Franco Mastantuono.

This kid is miles ahead of the rest. Wingers? Midfielders? Doesn’t matter. I’m picking Mastantuono first. He’s just 17, but already made a record-breaking move from Argentina to Europe. He’s now the most expensive Argentine teenager ever.

The only question: will he play? His new club, Moderat, won’t just throw him into the starting XI. But here’s why I’m still optimistic — he’s under Xabi Alonso, a manager who isn’t afraid to bet on youth.

Even if he doesn’t start every game, regular minutes off the bench would be enough. Worst-case scenario? A smart loan. Just look at Nico Paz — loaned to Como and still made the national squad. Mastantuono can do the same. He just needs to keep playing.

Ideal Argentina XI — If You Ask Right Now

If someone handed me a whiteboard and told me to drop Argentina’s lineup with full belief, this is what I’d go with:

Defence: RB: Agustín Giai, LB: Julio Soler
Both are young, quick, and offer insane recovery pace. They bring a freshness we desperately need.

CBs: Cristian Romero and Valentín Barco/Baledí
Romero remains untouchable. The partner depends on form, but Barco/Baledí offer versatility and balance.

Midfield: DM: Alexis Mac Allister, CMs: Rodrigo De Paul & Enzo Fernández (if fit)
Alexis and De Paul give us bite and control. Enzo is class, but his spot isn’t guaranteed. If he underperforms, Thiago Almada is knocking on the door.

Wildcard: Leandro Paredes
Underused but elite. Doesn’t get enough credit. If Mac Allister shifts forward, Paredes can anchor.

Attack: RW: Lionel Messi (or Mastantuono if Messi rests), LW: Alejandro Garnacho / Giuliano Simeone, ST: Julián Álvarez / Giovanni Simeone

Bonus: Formation Flexibility
Depending on the situation, this could become a 4-2-2-2 or a narrow 4-3-1-2. Messi, Almada, and Mastantuono can all float between wings and CAM. Flexibility is key.

The Bench Is STACKED — And That’s a Good Problem

Argentina has an embarrassment of riches. Just look at the alternatives:
CAM Options: Almada, Nico Paz, Palacios, Perone
Wings: Garnacho, Santiago Castro, Carboni, Lomonaco
Fullbacks: Barco, Medina, Giai, Montiel, Molina
Midfielders: Paredes, Enzo, Mac Allister, De Paul
The competition is insane. Even Messi’s position is being shadowed by Mastantuono and Dybala.

Paulo Dybala — The Emotional Dilemma

Let’s talk about Paulo Dybala. I love this guy. And if there’s one player who can somewhat replicate Messi’s profile in that creative right-sided role — it’s Dybala. But the sad truth?

He needs a fully fit season. Otherwise, he won’t make the cut. Scaloni will drop him without blinking. That’s how ruthless this setup is.

Final Word: This Squad Is World-Class — With or Without Messi

What’s exciting is that Argentina no longer depends solely on Messi. The structure, the youth, the tactical intelligence — it’s all there.

This squad isn’t just about one last dance. It’s about the next era. If managed right, it could be even more dangerous than the one that just won the World Cup