​Dream Dashed! Argentina Announces World Cup Squad, Buendía Misses Out on Chance to Play with Messi

The Argentine Football Association has officially announced the 26-man World Cup squad, with Lionel Messi leading the team, while Aston Villa attacking midfielder Emiliano Buendía has been left out.

In this squad, Lionel Scaloni has retained the core of the World Cup-winning team, while adding new faces such as Valentín Barco, Nico Paz, and Giuliano Simeone. Despite coming off an excellent season with Aston Villa (11 goals and 9 assists) and contributing a goal and an assist in the Europa League final, Buendía ultimately failed to convince the coaching staff.

Shortly before the squad announcement, Buendía had publicly expressed his desire to represent the national team, and speaking about Messi, he said that the captain is an idol for all Argentine players, and that everyone wants to play alongside him for as long as possible. With the squad now confirmed, the Aston Villa attacker's World Cup dream has been temporarily dashed.

Source: X