Serie A top scorer Icardi left out as Argentina name World Cup squad

Serie A top scorer Mauro Icardi has been left out of Argentina's 23-man squad to compete at this summer's World Cup in Russia.

Coach Jorge Sampaoli has opted for Juventus' Pablo Dybala but found no space for the striker who bagged 29 goals in 34 appearances for Inter last season.

Sergio Aguero of Manchester City and Gonzalo Higuaín, also of Juventus, are the other strikers chosen to compete for attacking berths alongside talisman Lionel Messi.

Just nine members of the squad have previously competed at a World Cup – Messi having captained La Albiceleste to the final of World Cup 2014, where they lost 1-0 to Germany.

“We’ve decided on these names after a lot of analysis in every position,” Sampaoli said on the squad's unveiling.

”Cristian Ansaldi can play on either side. [Maximiliano] Meza gives you options either on the outside or on the inside of the pitch.

“I spoke with Messi and I saw him as very enthusiastic for what’s coming up. Physically, he’s doing well.

“Sergio Aguero has been training normally since last week. [Gabriel] Mercado won’t have any problems. We will see how [Lucas] Biglia arrives.”

Argentina final World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero, Willy Caballero, Franco Armani

Defenders: Gabriel Mercado, Javier Mascherano, Nicolas Otamendi, Federico Fazio, Marcos Rojo, Nicolas Tagliafico, Marcos Acuna, Cristian Ansaldi

Midfielders: Manuel Lanzini, Maximiliano Meza, Lucas Biglia, Ever Banega, Giovani Lo Celso, Angel Di Maria, Cristian Pavon, Eduardo Salvio

Forwards: Paulo Dybala, Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain.