Marcos Senesi Replaces Leonardo Balerdi in Argentina's 2026 World Cup Squad

Argentina's national football team coach Lionel Scaloni has finalized his squad for the 2026 World Cup, with defender Marcos Senesi stepping in to replace Leonardo Balerdi. This decision marks the final adjustment before Argentina's debut match against Algeria next Tuesday.

Scaloni opted for a like-for-like replacement, choosing another defender rather than a midfielder, a move that sidesteps speculation about including Guido Rodríguez, a member of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad. Senesi's inclusion comes at a significant moment in his career, as he is set to join Tottenham Hotspur on July 1, following the end of his contract with Bournemouth.

Senesi expressed his excitement about the transfer, stating, "From the first moment, the club showed me why they want me and how much they want me to be part of what they are building. It's exciting and I can't wait to get involved." He also outlined his ambitions with the London club, aiming to make fans proud and help Tottenham achieve its goals. "Every time I step on the field, I will do everything possible to make the fans proud and return the club to where it belongs. I want to win titles with Tottenham and I will do everything I can to achieve it," he declared.

The 29-year-old defender, who hails from Entre Ríos province, is known for his strong left foot, defensive prowess, and ability to contribute offensively, even scoring goals. He previously excelled for Feyenoord in the Netherlands for three seasons before moving to Bournemouth. His transfer to Tottenham places him among the Premier League's elite clubs, with the potential to form a formidable defensive partnership with fellow Argentine Cristian "Cuti" Romero.

Senesi's journey has been marked by audacity and consistent performance. He became a key player for Feyenoord, earning a documentary titled "Gladiator" in his honor. Now, at Tottenham, he is considered a leading figure in the team's defense, entering what is widely regarded as the peak of his footballing career.