Argentina news

Lionel Messi might be entering the twilight of his legendary career, but the Inter Miami superstar has no intention of slowing down ahead of the 2026 World Cup. His club and international team-mate Rodrigo de Paul has revealed that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is currently undergoing a gruelling physical transformation to ensure he is in peak condition for Argentina's title defence.

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has been informed of what needs to happen in order for him to become a Ballon d’Or contender in 2026, while Ruud Gullit has told GOAL why a ninth triumph for Argentine GOAT Lionel Messi cannot be ruled out. The title of best player on the planet will likely be bestowed upon a superstar performer that illuminates this summer’s World Cup.

Which player has the most assists in World Cup history ahead of the 2026 tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada? The tournament has been graced by some of the most mercurial players to ever play the game, but which of them have laid on the most goals for their team-mates? And could there be a new assists king come the end of the summer?

The World Cup has been the home of some of the very best players in football's history so it is little surprise that the subject of the best goal at the tournament is so hotly debated. Diego Maradona, Pele, and even Benjamin Pavard would put forward their own arguments for the prize, but which of them come out on top, if any?! GOAL guides you through the 15 best goals in the World Cup finals.

There are questions to be asked about the USMNT, and plenty of storylines from top South American teams with the tournament looming.

Lionel Scaloni has officially unveiled Argentina's massive 55-man provisional squad for the 2026 World Cup, headlined by legendary captain Lionel Messi. As the Albiceleste prepare to defend their global crown in North America, the manager has mixed established icons with rising stars from the Premier League and beyond. However, the announcement has caused a stir across the footballing world as several high-profile names, including a 40-cap Serie A veteran, found themselves entirely omitted from the longlist.

Lionel Messi has thrown his weight behind former team-mate Neymar, insisting the Santos superstar "deserves" to be part of Brazil's World Cup squad despite his recent struggles with injury. The Inter Miami captain described his close friend as a "very special" talent who remains one of the finest players on the planet.

Nicolas Tagliafico has revealed that Argentina are determined to provide Lionel Messi with the ultimate farewell by defending their crown at the 2026 World Cup. The defender insists that while "nobody will be ready" for the day the captain eventually retires, the squad is fully committed to supporting their leader until the very end.

Lionel Messi has provided a surprising assessment of the international landscape ahead of the 2026 World Cup, suggesting that several nations are currently better equipped than Argentina to lift the trophy. The Inter Miami superstar identified four specific rivals he believes are entering the tournament in superior form compared to the defending champions, including Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Antonio Cassano has revealed Lionel Messi's retirement timeline after meeting the Argentina icon in Florida. Despite approaching his 39th birthday, the Inter Miami superstar appears to have no immediate intention of hanging up his boots as he eyes further success in MLS and potentially on the international stage.

FIFA have extended Gianluca Prestianni's ban for homophobic conduct globally, meaning he could now miss Argentina's first two games at the 2026 World Cup. The Benfica winger, who was sanctioned following a high-profile clash with Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior, will now see his club-level suspension apply to international competitive fixtures.

Alpine Formula 1 driver Franco Colapinto has fulfilled a lifelong ambition after enjoying a private meeting with his sporting idol Lionel Messi ahead of the Miami Grand Prix. The encounter at Inter Miami's training ground served as a reciprocal gesture following the young driver’s decision to gift the legendary footballer a signed race helmet last year.