Four years ago, after a Round of 16 exit at the hands of France at Russia 2018, the outlook was bleak for a team that was due to replace the generation that finished runners-up at Brazil 2014 and begin a period of transition whose duration and outcome were shrouded in uncertainty. Doubts about the players brought in to replace the old breed only seemed to be confirmed in the months following Russia 2018, with several well-known and experienced coaches rejecting the Argentina job. 

One of those not ruled out was Lionel Scaloni, who eventually took on the impossible task and began to make things work, overhauling the team and building a selection and squad that clustered around the figurehead, Lionel Messi. After Scaloni found new men for each position and gave them time to settle, the Albiceleste ended a 28-year quest for major silverware at the Copa America 2021, backing that performance up with a near-perfect Qatar 2022 qualifying campaign, followed by a comprehensive victory over European champions Italy in the Finalísima. 

With one of the greatest players of all time at the helm, a down-to-earth coach who has grown during his tenure, and a group of players willing to give their all for their hero, Argentina will be one of the favorites at this year's global showpiece. Here are five of the players worth keeping an eye on as Qatar 2022 kicks off.