SOCCER: Argentina places Midfielder Gianluca Prestianni on preliminary roster

Despite facing a FIFA suspension that would cover the opening two matches of the tournament, the Argentina national team included midfielder Gianluca Prestianni in its preliminary 55-man roster for the upcoming World Cup.

Also named in the expanded squad is veteran forward Lionel Messi, who has yet to confirm whether he will participate in the tournament as the defending champions prepare to retain their title.

Prestianni, who plays for Benfica, received a six-match suspension for alleged homophobic conduct during a UEFA Champions League match in February. The incident reportedly involved verbal insults directed at Vinícius Júnior of Real Madrid. The midfielder denied using abusive language, stating on social media that he was “misunderstood.”

The initial sanction was issued by UEFA, and was later extended worldwide by FIFA, making him ineligible for all FIFA-sanctioned matches during the suspension period.

Prestianni made his senior debut for the Argentina national football team in November, marking his first appearance at international level.

Meanwhile, Messi, 38, delivered a standout performance at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, scoring seven goals and playing a central role in Argentina’s title run. In the final against France, he opened the scoring in the 23rd minute and later converted in the penalty shootout following a dramatic 3-3 draw after extra time.

Now captaining Inter Miami CF, Messi remains in strong form, scoring nine goals in 11 MLS appearances this season and totaling 10 goals across 15 matches in all competitions. -Field Level Media/Reuters