World Cup 2026: Marcos Senesi earns late Argentina call-up

Marcos Senesi has been added to Argentina’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being called up as a replacement for the injured Leonardo Balerdi.

The Argentine Football Association confirmed the decision on Thursday evening, announcing that the Tottenham defender will join Lionel Scaloni’s squad as the 26th player selected for the tournament.

The late change comes after Balerdi was forced to withdraw through injury, prompting Argentina to bring in Senesi to maintain defensive depth ahead of the competition.

Scaloni opted to replace the injured defender with another specialist centre-back, ensuring the reigning world champions retain balance in their squad as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

For Senesi, the call-up marks a significant moment in a week already filled with major developments in his career.

Having recently completed a move to Tottenham, the defender has now received the opportunity to represent his country at the biggest tournament in international football.

The selection is the latest reward for a player whose career has steadily progressed both domestically and in Europe.

Senesi began his professional journey with San Lorenzo, where he developed through the club’s youth system before establishing himself in the first team.

During his time with the Argentine side, he made 72 appearances and earned recognition as one of the country’s promising defenders.

His performances eventually led to a move to Europe, where he continued his development and built a reputation as a dependable defender.

After spending time with Feyenoord, Senesi gained valuable experience at a high level and continued to demonstrate consistency in his performances.

That reliability has now been recognised with a place in Argentina’s World Cup squad.

Although his inclusion comes under unexpected circumstances, the opportunity provides the defender with a chance to contribute on football’s grandest stage.

The timing of the call-up makes the achievement even more remarkable.

Within the space of a few days, Senesi has completed a transfer to one of England’s leading clubs and secured a place in Argentina’s World Cup squad.

For many players, a World Cup appearance represents the pinnacle of an international career.

Senesi now has the opportunity to experience the tournament environment and compete alongside some of the country’s biggest stars.

His arrival also offers Argentina an additional defensive option as the squad prepares for a demanding competition.

The withdrawal of Balerdi created an unexpected vacancy, but the coaching staff moved quickly to fill the position with a player they believe can provide quality and experience.

Senesi’s journey from San Lorenzo to European football has been built on steady progress rather than sudden breakthroughs.

The latest chapter in that journey now sees him included among the players selected to represent Argentina at the 2026 World Cup.

The defender joins the squad at a crucial moment and will be hoping to make the most of an opportunity that arrived at the last minute.

For Argentina, the change ensures that Scaloni’s 26-man roster remains complete despite Balerdi’s absence.

For Senesi, it represents the chance to participate in the most prestigious tournament in world football and add a new milestone to what has already been an unforgettable week.