Lionel Messi expected to return to Argentina The national team after missing the international window in March, but another heading-guys are reportedly to join the squad. For the coming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers In June, Head coach Lionel Scaloni will call a surprising young talent.
After strong results against Uruguay and Brazil in March, Argentina has already secured her place in the 2026 World Cup. But with four qualifiers that still remain, Scaloni uses the opportunity to continue shaping its list – and give young stars a chance to shine on the senior stage.
The Argentine journalist and national team’s insider Gastón Edul has reported it 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono will be included in the squad for the matches against Chile and Colombia. The call is expected to be part of a broader list of domestic -based players that are evaluated before the tournament.
Currently with the lead role at the riverplate, Mastantuono has already attracted attention from Europe’s largest clubs. His representatives have reportedly met Real Madrid at the beginning of 2025, while The sun Previously linked Manchester United With a strong interest in the teenager and calls him one of the brightest emerging talents in the country.
Mastantuono could break the Messi record with the national team
Lionel Messi has etched its name in Argentina’s history books as the country’s leaders for constantly in performances, goals, assists and trophies-cut by two Copa América titles and the 2022 World Cup. But Mastantuono’s expected debut can mark a new milestone of his own.
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If the 17-year-old rose on the pitch in June, he would be the fifth youngest player ever debuting for Argentina-Edging Messi. The Inter Miami star debuted at the age of 18 in a match in 2005 against Hungary. Mastantuono, born August 14, 2007, was able to start writing his own heritage for La Albiceleste even before he turned 18 years.
