In the high-stakes world of international football, loyalty is a complex tapestry woven from heritage, opportunity, and the burning desire to compete at the highest level. For Matias Soulé, the gifted forward currently dazzling audiences at AS Roma, this tapestry is becoming increasingly intricate. As Argentina`s senior squad remains elusive, the siren call of the Azzurri grows louder, presenting a fascinating dilemma for a player on the cusp of global recognition.
Matias Soulé in action for AS Roma, showcasing the form that has caught international attention.
The Argentinian Dream Deferred
Soulé`s heart, by his own admission, has long beaten for the sky blue and white of Argentina. He`s an “Italo-Argentino,” yes, but his upbringing and initial footballing dreams were firmly rooted in the land of Maradona and Messi. However, the path to the Albiceleste senior team is notoriously crowded, especially in attacking roles. Despite consistent, eye-catching performances, particularly this season, a call-up from Argentina has yet to materialize.
“Matias is working hard for the national team, he`s the only young Argentinian who hasn`t had the chance to play a minute yet,” states Martin Guastadisegno, Soulé`s agent. “He`s becoming a leader in an important team like Roma and deserves a chance. We know Argentina has many players in that role, but with this continuity in performance, Matias deserves the call. His dream is to play in a World Cup.”
It`s a familiar narrative: a talented prospect, overshadowed by an abundance of riches in his preferred national team. For a player whose ultimate ambition is to grace the World Cup stage, sitting on the sidelines of his primary choice can only lead to introspection and, perhaps, a reconsideration of priorities.
Italy`s Enduring Invitation
While Argentina deliberates, Italy`s door has remained hospitably ajar. The Azzurri, always keen to bolster their ranks with talent, regardless of where they were born, have long eyed Soulé. Former national team coaches, notably Luciano Spalletti, had reportedly extended an invitation for Euro 2024. At that time, Soulé politely declined, prioritizing his Argentinian aspiration.
But football, like life, is about evolving circumstances. Guastadisegno`s recent remarks underscore this shift:
“Soulé is Italo-Argentino, and at this point, I don`t know what might happen if the situation with the Albiceleste doesn`t unlock. Everything is still on the table right now. Matias would legally have the possibility to be called up by the Italian national team.”
This isn`t merely a strategic maneuver; it`s a pragmatic assessment of a player`s career trajectory. If one nation, despite undeniable talent, continues to overlook you, another, equally prestigious, offers a clear path. The appeal for Italy is clear: they gain a highly skilled offensive player who could significantly contribute to their World Cup qualification efforts. It`s a testament to the adage, “One team`s oversight is another`s opportunity.”
The Rise of a Roman Leader
Soulé`s current form only amplifies this international tug-of-war. Under Gian Piero Gasperini at Roma, he has transformed into a pivotal figure. This season has seen him notch 2 goals and 3 assists, leading the squad in both ball recoveries and successful dribbles. He`s not just participating; he`s dictating play and becoming a genuine leader on the pitch.
His agent fondly recalls the initial skepticism that surrounded Soulé, drawing a wry comparison to previous fleeting talents. “I haven`t forgotten the criticisms from last year, when after just two months, some newspapers wrote he was the new Iturbe. I`ve seen a guy who wasn`t discouraged after missing a penalty but reacted immediately. After his goal with Fiorentina, he rallied his teammates to go for the lead; he`s becoming a leader in the squad.”
The gratitude extends to those who nurtured his growth: Claudio Ranieri for providing confidence last year, Gasperini for current refinement, and Daniele De Rossi for his insistence on bringing him to Roma. This collective belief has undoubtedly fueled Soulé`s ascent, making him a hot commodity on the international stage.
A Broader Footballing Debate
Soulé`s potential switch reignites the perennial debate surrounding “oriundi” – players born abroad but eligible through ancestry. For some, it`s a testament to the global nature of football and a necessary pragmatism for national teams to remain competitive, especially when homegrown talent pools are not as deep as desired. For others, it touches on questions of national identity and emotional connection to the shirt. Italy, having famously won a World Cup with several *oriundi* in 2006 (e.g., Mauro Camoranesi), has historically embraced this approach. It’s a delicate balance: is it about assembling the strongest possible squad, or strictly adhering to a purist representation of national heritage? Perhaps, it`s a convenient marriage of necessity and opportunity, a strategic move that sometimes garners criticism but often yields results.
The Ball in Soulé`s Court
As the international break approaches, the decision weighs heavily on Matias Soulé. His professional trajectory suggests he belongs on the grandest stages of international football. If Argentina`s door remains closed, the allure of the Azzurri – a nation offering both a World Cup dream and immediate recognition for his burgeoning talent – might prove irresistible. The footballing world watches with keen interest to see which flag this rising star will ultimately choose to represent, and how this choice will shape the next chapter of his promising career.
Murray Blackwood