Julián Álvarez says Argentina are already fully focused on defending their crown at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the striker insisting the reigning champions are determined to reach another final in North America.
Speaking ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Alvarez said Argentina’s mentality has not changed since lifting the trophy in Qatar, despite the growing pressure that comes with being world champions.
“As Argentinians, the dream is always to become champions,” Alvarez said in an interview with FIFA. “We know how difficult it will be, but the ambition inside the team is still the same.”
The Atlético Madrid forward has become one of the key figures in coach Lionel Scaloni’s squad since the 2022 World Cup triumph. Four years ago, Alvarez entered the tournament as support for Lautaro Martínez, but he now forms part of Argentina’s main attacking core.
Alvarez described the competition for places in attack as healthy, saying the relationship between players has always been built around helping the team succeed.
“When we play together, things have worked well, and when one or the other plays, the important thing is that everybody wants the best for Argentina,” he said.
The striker also reflected on the emotional importance of the upcoming tournament, with strong expectations that Lionel Messi could be preparing for his final World Cup appearance.
“We all understand this could be Leo’s last World Cup because of his age, although the decision belongs to him,” Alvarez said.
“It’s going to be a special World Cup, not only for us as teammates or for Argentina, but for football fans everywhere because he is the greatest player in history.”
Argentina head into the tournament carrying momentum from one of the most successful periods in the country’s football history. Alongside their World Cup triumph in Qatar, Scaloni’s side also secured back to back Copa América titles, establishing themselves as the dominant force in international football.
Alvarez said retaining the World Cup would elevate the current squad into an even greater place in football history.
“If we win again, it would be historic because we would become back to back world champions after also winning two Copa America titles,” he said.
“The last few years have been incredible for our country, and hopefully we can continue making history because that would make everyone very happy.”
With the countdown to World Cup 2026 already gathering pace, Argentina’s message remains clear: the champions are not satisfied with just one title.
