Daniel Bertoni, a 1978 World Cup champion, said that loyalty to the 2022 squad could be fatal to Argentina's title defense [1].
The warning comes as the national team prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup [2]. If successful, Argentina would become the first team in more than half a century to defend the World Cup title [3].
Bertoni said that coach Lionel Scaloni may rely too heavily on the players who secured the victory in 2022 [1]. This approach, he said, risks limiting the integration of new talent and reducing the team's overall chances of retaining the trophy [4].
Reports indicate that 16 players from the 2022 World Cup squad have been retained for the 2026 squad [2]. Bertoni said that maintaining this core without sufficient renewal could hinder the team's adaptability and energy on the pitch.
The balance between veteran experience and fresh blood remains a central tension for the squad. While the 2022 core provides proven chemistry, the physical demands of the tournament often require the infusion of younger players to maintain high intensity throughout the competition.
Argentina's strategy under Scaloni has focused on stability and trust in the winning group. However, the 1978 champion said that sentimentality toward past success may cloud the tactical necessity of squad evolution [1].
“Loyalty could be fatal to Argentina's World Cup title defence”
The tension between continuity and renewal is a classic challenge for defending champions. By retaining a high number of veterans, Argentina maintains a psychological edge and established chemistry, but risks stagnation and physical decline. Bertoni's critique highlights a strategic gamble by Lionel Scaloni to prioritize a proven system over the unpredictability of new talent.
