Prestianni’s World Cup omission gives Benfica an early-season headache | OneFootball

Gianluca Prestianni has been left out of Argentina’s final 26 for the 2026 World Cup, a decision that will see him serve a UEFA ban with Benfica at the start of next season. According to Glorioso 1904, his omission complicates the club’s European planning.

The young winger was on Lionel Scaloni’s provisional list but did not make the cut for the final squad.

His absence from the tournament means a UEFA suspension must now be completed with Benfica. Prestianni was punished for homophobic conduct after an incident involving Vinícius Júnior during February’s Champions League tie against Real Madrid.

He received a six-match ban, with three games suspended for two years. FIFA later accepted UEFA’s request to extend the sanction worldwide, allowing the punishment to be served in club or international fixtures.

Having already sat out the second leg against Real Madrid, he will also miss Benfica’s opening European matches of 2026/27. The Europa League second qualifying round is scheduled for 23 and 30 July.

With several players away at the World Cup, Benfica lose another option for those dates. Despite the disappointment of missing a first World Cup, Prestianni is expected to focus on pre-season and try to earn his place, while the identity of Benfica’s next head coach remains undecided.

Source: Glorioso 1904