ATLANTA — Argentina will head into the Copa América with its iconic duo, Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria, but without Paulo Dybala, as they seek to defend their title on American soil from June 20 to July 14.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the world champions are poised to start their Group A matches in Atlanta, facing Canada on June 20. The team will also play against Chile on June 25 and Peru on June 29. The squad selection highlights a strategic blend of seasoned internationals and promising newcomers. Messi and Di Maria, both 36, are set to bring a wealth of experience to the tournament, having participated in six and five Copa Américas respectively.

The decision to omit Dybala, despite his recent World Cup win with Argentina in Qatar, has been a talking point. Alongside Dybala, notable absences include Olympique de Marseille’s defender Leonardo and Ángel Correa of Atlético Madrid. Young talents such as Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United and Valentin Carboni from Monza have been included, signaling a shift towards integrating new blood into the team's core.

The squad of 26 players also includes goalkeepers Emiliano Martínez, Franco Armani, and Gerónimo Rulli; defenders such as Gonzalo Montiel, Nahuel Molina, and Nicolás Tagliafico; midfielders Guido Rodríguez, Leandro Paredes, and Rodrigo De Paul; along with forwards Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez. This selection underscores Scaloni’s confidence in a roster that balances established stars with emerging talent, aiming for a robust campaign to retain their continental crown.