Cristian Romero is very likely to be in Argentina’s final 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup. He was included in the preliminary 55-man list, which is a strong signal from Lionel Scaloni that he is still part of the main plans.
He also continues to be seen as a starter when fit. Most projections still place him in central defence with Lisandro Martínez as his partner.
The only real concern is his knee injury. He suffered a partial MCL tear in April 2026 and was ruled out for the rest of Tottenham’s season. Doctors expected a recovery time of around five to eight weeks.
Argentina’s first World Cup match is in mid-June, so his recovery is tight but still possible. He has already been under medical monitoring. And his rehab is being closely tracked by Argentina staff.
Because of his importance to the defence, most reports suggest Argentina are willing to take the risk on him, even if he arrives slightly short of full match fitness.
Romero Expected to Recover in Time as Argentina Monitor World Cup Fitness Ahead of 2026 Squad Selection
Cristian Romero has got positive signs for the 2026 World Cup with Argentina even after his recent injury with Tottenham.
He was injured near the end of the Premier League season and was ruled out of Tottenham’s remaining matches. That raised doubts about his fitness for the tournament.
But new reports suggest he still has a strong chance to be part of Argentina’s World Cup squad next month.
He is even being projected as a starter in some early squad predictions. He is expected to play in central defence, likely alongside Lisandro Martínez if fully fit.
Argentina’s defence is still seen as slightly fragile because of ongoing injury issues among key defenders. Romero is important because he brings aggression and stability at the back.
The main concern is still fitness, but current updates suggest he is on track to recover in time for selection if there are no setbacks.
Argentina Narrow Down 2026 World Cup Squad as Scaloni Nears Final 26-Man Selection
Argentina are in the final stage of building their World Cup squad for 2026. Coach Lionel Scaloni has already trimmed his long list.
The squad started with 55 players. It is now cut down to around 35. Final 26 players will be picked soon.
Reports say the coaching staff is already working in Argentina to make the final decision this week. They do not want to wait until the FIFA deadline.
Some players based in Europe are already told they may not travel unless they are picked in the final squad. Others playing in Argentina and Brazil are still on standby until the final call.
The main reason for delay is injuries and fitness issues. Several players are not fully fit yet and are being monitored closely.
Cristian Romero is one of them. He is out for Tottenham’s season but is expected to be fit before Argentina’s first World Cup match. Gonzalo Montiel and Nahuel Molina are also not fully clear yet. Nicolás González is recovering from a muscle problem.
Argentina have already won the World Cup in 2022. Now they are trying to defend the title in 2026 with a final squad decision expected very soon.
Argentina 2026 World Cup Squad Shape and Expected Starting XI Under Scaloni
Argentina go into the 2026 World Cup as defending champions after winning in 2022 under Lionel Scaloni. They qualified easily by finishing top of the South American qualifiers, even beating Brazil twice.
The final squad will come from a big 55-man list, which is now being cut down to 26 players.
In goal, Emiliano Martínez is locked in as first choice. He is one of the most trusted players in big matches. Gerónimo Rulli and Juan Musso are the main backup options.
In defence, the core is already clear. Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez are the main centre-back pair. Nicolás Otamendi is still there for experience. Nahuel Molina and Nicolás Tagliafico are expected starters in the full-back roles. Players like Montiel, Marcos Acuña and others add depth.
The midfield is very strong. Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernández are key names. Leandro Paredes also brings experience. Young players like Franco Mastantuono and Claudio Echeverri are in the mix, while Thiago Almada is another important option.
In attack, Lionel Messi leads the team and is expected to play his final World Cup. He is supported by Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez, who are both key goal threats. Nicolás González and Giuliano Simeone add more depth in forward areas.
Some big names like Ángel Di María have already retired. Paulo Dybala missed out of the preliminary squad.
The expected starting team usually looks like Emiliano Martínez in goal, Romero and Lisandro Martínez in central defence, Molina and Tagliafico on the sides, De Paul, Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández in midfield, and Messi with Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez up front.
FAQs
Q. Is Cristian Romero expected to play in the 2026 World Cup?
A. Yes, Cristian Romero is very likely to be in Argentina’s final 26-man squad.
Q. What injury did Cristian Romero suffer?
A. Cristian Romero had a partial MCL tear in April 2026 and missed the end of Tottenham’s season.
Q. Will Cristian Romero recover in time for the World Cup?
A. Yes, his recovery is expected in about 5 to 8 weeks, so he may be fit for the tournament.
Q. Who is expected to partner him in defence for Argentina?
A. Lisandro Martínez is the most likely centre-back partner if both are fit.
Q. Why is Argentina still considering him despite injury?
A. Because Cristian Romero is a key defender and very important to their system when fit.
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