While Dybala was not included in the Argentina squad for the World Cup qualifiers, Martínez returned from suspension

BUENOS AIRES (AP) — Roma striker Paulo Dybala is not included in the Argentina squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez returned after suspension.

Coach Lionel Scaloni announced his squad on Tuesday; Dybala’s absence and the inclusion of Valencia midfielder Enzo Barrenechea were two big surprises.

Martínez was suspended by FIFA from the last two qualifying matches for “offensive behaviour” in their previous two appearances in September, but he will be available for the game in Paraguay on 14 November and the home game against Peru five days later.

Argentina is leading the South American World Cup qualifiers with 22 points from 10 matches. The top six teams will directly take part in the 2026 tournament.

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Staff:

Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa), Walter Benitez (PSV Eindhoven), Gerónimo Rulli (Marseille).

Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel (Sevilla), Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid), Cristian Romero (Tottenham), Germán Pezzella (River Plate), Nehuén Pérez (Porto), Leonardo Balerini (Marseille), Nicolás Otamendi (Benfica), Lisandro Martínez (Manchester). ) United), Nicolás Tagliafico (Lyon).

Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (Roma), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Enzo Fernández (Chelsea), Giovani Lo Celso (Real Betis), Nicolás Paz (Como), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen), Rodrigo de Paul (Atletico Madrid). ), Enzo Barrenechea (Valencia).

Forwards: Thiago Almada (Botafogo), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Nicolás González (Juventus), Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United), Julián Álvarez (Atletico Madrid), Facundo Buonanotte (Leicester), Valentín Castellanos (Lazio), Lautaro Martínez ( Inter Milan).

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