Argentina names preliminary World Cup squad with Prestianni included and Dybala omitted
Quick summary
Argentina's preliminary 2026 World Cup squad includes Gianluca Prestianni and Alejandro Garnacho, while Paulo Dybala is left out. The selection signals a youthful attacking tilt despite Garnacho's poor club form.
What happened
Argentina have announced a preliminary World Cup squad featuring young attacker Gianluca Prestianni and Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho. Paulo Dybala has been omitted from the group, removing an experienced creative option from the early squad picture. Garnacho's inclusion is notable because it comes despite weak recent club form. The decision suggests Argentina are prioritizing pace and upside in wide attacking areas ahead of the tournament.
Chance analysis
This matters because preliminary squad calls shape expectations around attacking roles, depth, and tactical flexibility before the World Cup. Dybala's absence reduces proven experience and creativity, while the inclusion of younger wide players points toward a more vertical, transition-oriented attacking profile.
Argentina's attacking depth looks younger and more wing-oriented, with Dybala's omission slightly reducing established creative security.
Treat this as a squad-selection signal: downgrade Dybala-related involvement expectations and slightly upgrade the likelihood of younger wide attackers seeing tournament minutes.