1 hr. ago
BUENOS AIRES (AP) - Lionel Messi has ended his career as a player for the Argentine national team at 39 years old, after nearly two decades representing the national side.
Messi, who played in six World Cups, won the tournament in Qatar 2022 and led Argentina to the final in 2026 losing to Spain.
"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deeply - but I understand that the time has come," Messi said on his official Instagram account. "I swear to you that I always gave it my all- not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football."
Sign up for Afternoon Headlines, MySA's free newsletter bringing you San Antonio's top stories of the day.
This article originally published at Lionel Messi says he's retiring from playing for Argentina.
#lionel #always #everything #buenos
Messi, who played in six World Cups, won the tournament in Qatar 2022 and led Argentina to the final in 2026 losing to Spain.
"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deeply - but I understand that the time has come," Messi said on his official Instagram account. "I swear to you that I always gave it my all- not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football."
Sign up for Afternoon Headlines, MySA's free newsletter bringing you San Antonio's top stories of the day.
This article originally published at Lionel Messi says he's retiring from playing for Argentina.
#lionel #always #everything #buenos
4 days ago
By Guilherme Guarche, from the Memory Center
On August 26, 1935, a Monday, José Manuel Ramos Delgado, the unforgettable center back Ramos Delgado, was born in the city of Quilmes, Argentina. His father, Faustino, a Cape Verdean, gave him the surname Ramos, and Delgado he inherited from his mother Maura, who was born in Sicily, Italy.
In 1956, at the age of 20, he began his career at Lanús, a team that in the following two years achieved excellent results, to the point of being called Los Globetrotters and coming close to winning the Argentine ***** le.
His solid, composed performances put him on the list of call-ups for the 1958 World Cup in Sweden and caught the attention of River Plate, which signed him in 1959. For the Buenos Aires club he did not win any ***** les, but he became a great idol of the fans because of his talent for dispossessing opposing players without violence, and his class when playing out from the back was applauded by his Argentine admirers.
Ramos Delgado was captain of the Argentine National Team for many years, and when he arrived at Vila Belmiro he was already an experienced player. At the age of 32, he came with the mission of replacing the star Orlando Peçanha and the legendary Mauro Ramos de Oliveira.
#center #years #guarche
On August 26, 1935, a Monday, José Manuel Ramos Delgado, the unforgettable center back Ramos Delgado, was born in the city of Quilmes, Argentina. His father, Faustino, a Cape Verdean, gave him the surname Ramos, and Delgado he inherited from his mother Maura, who was born in Sicily, Italy.
In 1956, at the age of 20, he began his career at Lanús, a team that in the following two years achieved excellent results, to the point of being called Los Globetrotters and coming close to winning the Argentine ***** le.
His solid, composed performances put him on the list of call-ups for the 1958 World Cup in Sweden and caught the attention of River Plate, which signed him in 1959. For the Buenos Aires club he did not win any ***** les, but he became a great idol of the fans because of his talent for dispossessing opposing players without violence, and his class when playing out from the back was applauded by his Argentine admirers.
Ramos Delgado was captain of the Argentine National Team for many years, and when he arrived at Vila Belmiro he was already an experienced player. At the age of 32, he came with the mission of replacing the star Orlando Peçanha and the legendary Mauro Ramos de Oliveira.
#center #years #guarche
7 days ago
If it wasn't for the yerba mate steaming up in front of her, Maia Reficco might easily lose track of which city she's in.
"I did five cities in five countries in five days," she says. "I was in Monaco, Spain, New York, Mexico City and Buenos Aires, all in five days."
More from WWD
EXCLUSIVE: Depop to Host Pop-up at Olivia Rodrigo's Daisy Chain Fields
Charles Leclerc on Margiela Tabis, Upcoming Grandmaster Chess Match and His Growing Family
#days #spain #york
"I did five cities in five countries in five days," she says. "I was in Monaco, Spain, New York, Mexico City and Buenos Aires, all in five days."
More from WWD
EXCLUSIVE: Depop to Host Pop-up at Olivia Rodrigo's Daisy Chain Fields
Charles Leclerc on Margiela Tabis, Upcoming Grandmaster Chess Match and His Growing Family
#days #spain #york
11 days ago
Shares of Vista Energy (VIST) climbed after Peter Thiel, co-founder and chair of Palantir Technologies (PLTR), disclosed a roughly 1% stake in the Argentine oil and gas producer. Thiel Macro LLC spent about $76 million to acquire roughly 1.2 million American depositary shares, making Vista Energy its second-largest holding behind Amazon (AMZN) and its only non-U.S. stock.
The stake also comes as Thiel deepens his ties to Argentina. He met President Javier Milei at the presidential palace about four months before the filing, and Milei said they discussed economic policy and their opposition to wealth taxes. Argentine media have also reported that Thiel bought a home in an upscale Buenos Aires neighborhood.
Forecasts for Hot US Temperatures Lift Nat-Gas Prices
What Will Watson Do Wednesday?
Crude Prices Gain on Reduced Middle Eastern Oil Supplies
#shares #stake #million
The stake also comes as Thiel deepens his ties to Argentina. He met President Javier Milei at the presidential palace about four months before the filing, and Milei said they discussed economic policy and their opposition to wealth taxes. Argentine media have also reported that Thiel bought a home in an upscale Buenos Aires neighborhood.
Forecasts for Hot US Temperatures Lift Nat-Gas Prices
What Will Watson Do Wednesday?
Crude Prices Gain on Reduced Middle Eastern Oil Supplies
#shares #stake #million
14 days ago
BUENOS AIRES, Aug 15 (Reuters) - Palantir chair and co-founder Peter Thiel has bought a 1% stake in Argentina's Vista, one of the largest oil companies operating in the country's Vaca Muerta shale formation, according to a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing.
The filing, published on Friday, comes four months after the tech billionaire met with Argentine President Javier Milei in the presidential palace, after which Milei told a local media outlet they discussed economic policies and his opposition to wealth taxes.
Thiel had recently bought a mansion in an upscale neighborhood of Buenos Aires, local media reported.
The billionaire's Thiel Macro LLC hedge fund bought around 1.2 million American Depositary Shares in Vista worth about $76 million, according to the SEC filing, equivalent to 1% of Vista's capital.
The fund declared a portfolio of $418.7 million, including stakes in Vistra, Amazon and power and energy firms American Electric Power, DTE Energy, FirstEnergy, CMS Energy and X-Energy.
#energy
The filing, published on Friday, comes four months after the tech billionaire met with Argentine President Javier Milei in the presidential palace, after which Milei told a local media outlet they discussed economic policies and his opposition to wealth taxes.
Thiel had recently bought a mansion in an upscale neighborhood of Buenos Aires, local media reported.
The billionaire's Thiel Macro LLC hedge fund bought around 1.2 million American Depositary Shares in Vista worth about $76 million, according to the SEC filing, equivalent to 1% of Vista's capital.
The fund declared a portfolio of $418.7 million, including stakes in Vistra, Amazon and power and energy firms American Electric Power, DTE Energy, FirstEnergy, CMS Energy and X-Energy.
#energy
19 days ago
Continuing our series that examines the struggles faced by both teams in one of the world's biggest rivalries, we now turn to Boca Juniors, and the club's turn since an iconic figure became its president.
Yesterday, we took a look at how River Plate's enormous spending over the past few seasons has yet to produce any results. But whereas Los Millonarios' issues lie fiscally, Boca Juniors' are different.
On the blue side of Buenos Aires, the problems are closely tied to the leadership of one man: club legend turned president Juan Román Riquelme.
Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images
Riquelme entered Boca politics in late 2019 after joining Jorge Amor Ameal's opposition ticket. He became vice president and head of football operations, eventually winning the presidency in December 2023.
#boca #turn #became #river
Yesterday, we took a look at how River Plate's enormous spending over the past few seasons has yet to produce any results. But whereas Los Millonarios' issues lie fiscally, Boca Juniors' are different.
On the blue side of Buenos Aires, the problems are closely tied to the leadership of one man: club legend turned president Juan Román Riquelme.
Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images
Riquelme entered Boca politics in late 2019 after joining Jorge Amor Ameal's opposition ticket. He became vice president and head of football operations, eventually winning the presidency in December 2023.
#boca #turn #became #river
19 days ago
His year could hardly have gone much better so far. "Only" the World Cup ******* le would probably have been the cherry on top of his career cream cake. After all, after Facundo Medina finished as World Cup runner-up with Argentina at the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico, he has now moved to the Bundesliga, joining Bayer Leverkusen for 20 million euros.
As a child, the now 27-year-old surely could never have dreamed that he would one day cost that much money. Medina grew up in Villa Fiorito, a poverty-stricken neighborhood in the greater Buenos Aires area. "I was born just eight blocks from Diego's (Maradona, editor's note) former house. His presence is everywhere there. Fiorito is a neighborhood that literally breathes football," the Argentine said during the World Cup. Like his idol, he grew up playing on dirt pitches.
To help his family and earn money, he collected cardboard. In an interview with ESPN, he looked back on that time: "I had other jobs. You had to survive in the neighborhood. I had to get a cart and work, like everyone else. I went out collecting cardboard with my uncles and the whole family." He said it was family work from Monday to Friday. Looking back, he said that he and his family always had something to eat, but they still had to work hard for it: "We would leave around four or five in the afternoon and come back around nine or ten at night."
That he has to work hard for his success was also clear at the start of his professional career. When River Plate released him in 2018, he moved to CA Talleres and made his breakthrough there. Via RC Lens, the defender eventually made the jump to Europe and fully developed into a key player at Olympique Marseille. This summer, he was finally rewarded with a place at the World Cup.
During the tournament, he also benefited from Nicolas Tagliafico not being able to start right away in the opening matches and was named in the starting lineup twice in the group stage, among other appearances. Against Austria (2-0), he set up Messi for the opening goal. He was also on the pitch in the final, but had to be substituted after 50 minutes because of injury.
#like
As a child, the now 27-year-old surely could never have dreamed that he would one day cost that much money. Medina grew up in Villa Fiorito, a poverty-stricken neighborhood in the greater Buenos Aires area. "I was born just eight blocks from Diego's (Maradona, editor's note) former house. His presence is everywhere there. Fiorito is a neighborhood that literally breathes football," the Argentine said during the World Cup. Like his idol, he grew up playing on dirt pitches.
To help his family and earn money, he collected cardboard. In an interview with ESPN, he looked back on that time: "I had other jobs. You had to survive in the neighborhood. I had to get a cart and work, like everyone else. I went out collecting cardboard with my uncles and the whole family." He said it was family work from Monday to Friday. Looking back, he said that he and his family always had something to eat, but they still had to work hard for it: "We would leave around four or five in the afternoon and come back around nine or ten at night."
That he has to work hard for his success was also clear at the start of his professional career. When River Plate released him in 2018, he moved to CA Talleres and made his breakthrough there. Via RC Lens, the defender eventually made the jump to Europe and fully developed into a key player at Olympique Marseille. This summer, he was finally rewarded with a place at the World Cup.
During the tournament, he also benefited from Nicolas Tagliafico not being able to start right away in the opening matches and was named in the starting lineup twice in the group stage, among other appearances. Against Austria (2-0), he set up Messi for the opening goal. He was also on the pitch in the final, but had to be substituted after 50 minutes because of injury.
#like
20 days ago
We're officially past the point in the U-23 rankings where potential alone will get you a spot. When you make your way closer and closer to #1 , you have to show ability in a top-flight league, preferably Serie A, to show that you're a serious hope for the future and for the present. There's no doubt that Santiago Castro has the Serie A experience necessary to view him as a player that Roma can rely on now and for the next five seasons. The biggest question circling the new Giallorossi #9 is whether he will be able to seize the opportunity handed to him confidently, with Donyell Malen ahead of him in the pecking order.
Age: 21
Position: Striker
Shades of: Lautaro Martinez, Julián Álvarez, Carlos Tevez with less wide play
Santiago Castro (who likes to go by Santi) was born in San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina, nearly 22 years ago. He first came to the attention of the Argentine football system while playing for the youth team at Vélez Sarsfield, the club he joined at age seven. After a decade in that youth system, Castro was given the chance to debut for their senior side in August 2021 at the age of sixteen. Since then, it's been a generally quick rise to the top for the young striker, as he racked up 65 appearances across all competitions for Vélez Sarsfield before transferring to Bologna in January 2024 for around €13.2 million.
#sarsfield
Age: 21
Position: Striker
Shades of: Lautaro Martinez, Julián Álvarez, Carlos Tevez with less wide play
Santiago Castro (who likes to go by Santi) was born in San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina, nearly 22 years ago. He first came to the attention of the Argentine football system while playing for the youth team at Vélez Sarsfield, the club he joined at age seven. After a decade in that youth system, Castro was given the chance to debut for their senior side in August 2021 at the age of sixteen. Since then, it's been a generally quick rise to the top for the young striker, as he racked up 65 appearances across all competitions for Vélez Sarsfield before transferring to Bologna in January 2024 for around €13.2 million.
#sarsfield
21 days ago
A story spanning more than thirty years, and an unbreakable bond with the Nerazzurri colours, which he has come to embody as both a face and a symbol of the Club. Today, Javier Zanetti turns 53, and the entire Inter family celebrates one of the greatest figures in the Club's history.Born in Buenos Aires on 10 August 1973, Zanetti joined Inter in the summer of 1995, taking the first step on an extraordinary journey built match after match through professionalism, dedication, elegance, charisma and a leadership that has become an example for generations of players and supporters. His journey saw him become the most capped player in Inter's history, wearing the famous number 4 shirt in 858 appearances and scoring 21 goals. It was a career that made him a captain loved by the Nerazzurri faithful and respected throughout the football world.Zanetti forged an instinctive and unbreakable bond with the Nerazzurri colours, embodying the values of Inter and achieving extraordinary success. The image of him, eyes wide with emotion as he lifted the Champions League trophy into the sky in 2010, is forever etched in the hearts and memories of every Inter fan. It was the crowning moment of a legendary career in which he won 16 trophies: five Serie A ***** les, four Coppa Italia trophies, four Italian Super Cups, one Champions League, one FIFA Club World Cup and one UEFA Cup.His relationship with Inter did not end when he retired from playing in 2014. Today, as Vice-President, he continues to represent the Club and its values in Italy and around the world, writing further chapters in a story that has continued beyond the pitch and has seen him add another three Serie A ***** les, three Coppa Italia trophies and three Italian Super Cups to his honours.In 2018, he was inducted into the Inter Hall of Fame, becoming the first defender to receive the honour. The number 4 shirt, which he wore throughout his Inter career, was retired in his honour.A legend on the pitch and a figure who remains a point of reference today: the Club and the entire Nerazzurri family wish Javier Zanetti a very happy birthday.
#nerazzurri #club #javier
#nerazzurri #club #javier
23 days ago
River Plate reached an agreement with Atlético de Madrid for the permanent signing of Thiago Almada. According to Olé and several Argentine media outlets, the deal is worth around €20 million ($23 million) for 100% of the player's rights.
In this way, Almada becomes the most expensive transfer in the history of the Buenos Aires club.
The player will travel to Argentina in the coming hours to join the squad. In fact, River has already registered him to play in the Copa Sudamericana.
Almada returns to Argentina earlier than expected, at just 25 years old, after making the jump to Brazilian football following his breakthrough at Vélez in 2018. His return strengthens a squad that needs goals and creativity for the rest of the season.
River did not specify the length of the contract or other terms of the deal in its statement. The exact timetable for his official presentation has also not yet been revealed.
#Argentina
In this way, Almada becomes the most expensive transfer in the history of the Buenos Aires club.
The player will travel to Argentina in the coming hours to join the squad. In fact, River has already registered him to play in the Copa Sudamericana.
Almada returns to Argentina earlier than expected, at just 25 years old, after making the jump to Brazilian football following his breakthrough at Vélez in 2018. His return strengthens a squad that needs goals and creativity for the rest of the season.
River did not specify the length of the contract or other terms of the deal in its statement. The exact timetable for his official presentation has also not yet been revealed.
#Argentina
23 days ago
Argentina host South Africa in a one-off Test in Buenos Aires as the pair continue a busy period of international action.
The Springboks are gearing up for four clashes with New Zealand in the new "Rugby's Greatest Rivalry" series, but first take on a Pumas team bidding to bounce back from a tough July.
Argentina were beaten by both Scotland and England on home soil, with fly half Tomas Albornoz's misdeeds at the end of that latter defeat leaving him banned for this game.
It makes the task tougher against the world champions, who have again displayed their strength in depth over the last couple of months.
Here's everything you need to know.
#Argentina #south
The Springboks are gearing up for four clashes with New Zealand in the new "Rugby's Greatest Rivalry" series, but first take on a Pumas team bidding to bounce back from a tough July.
Argentina were beaten by both Scotland and England on home soil, with fly half Tomas Albornoz's misdeeds at the end of that latter defeat leaving him banned for this game.
It makes the task tougher against the world champions, who have again displayed their strength in depth over the last couple of months.
Here's everything you need to know.
#Argentina #south
25 days ago
Argentina rugby fly half Tomas Albornoz has been banned for four matches after angrily confronting referee Angus Gardner following his side's defeat to England rugby.
The Pumas were contentiously denied a potentially match-tying try in the final minute of the clash in Santiago del Estero, with Bautista Delguy's score ruled out by referee Gardner in consultation with television match official Brett Cronan.
Albornoz had to be restrained by teammates after twice rushing over to Australian official Gardner in the aftermath.
The 28-year-old accepted his conduct, taken as a whole, was intimidatory but did not accept that his actions were abusive, insulting, offensive or threatening – a distinction which was accepted by both World Rugby and the disciplinary committee.
He has therefore been banned for four matches, including this weekend's encounter between Argentina and South Africa in Buenos Aires.
#match
The Pumas were contentiously denied a potentially match-tying try in the final minute of the clash in Santiago del Estero, with Bautista Delguy's score ruled out by referee Gardner in consultation with television match official Brett Cronan.
Albornoz had to be restrained by teammates after twice rushing over to Australian official Gardner in the aftermath.
The 28-year-old accepted his conduct, taken as a whole, was intimidatory but did not accept that his actions were abusive, insulting, offensive or threatening – a distinction which was accepted by both World Rugby and the disciplinary committee.
He has therefore been banned for four matches, including this weekend's encounter between Argentina and South Africa in Buenos Aires.
#match
29 days ago
Liam Payne's behavior reportedly grew increasingly erratic during the final hours of his life, with newly obtained witness statements offering one of the most detailed accounts yet of what unfolded before his fatal fall. Two women who spent several hours with the former One Direction singer on October 16, 2024, described the condition of his Buenos Aires hotel room, his alleged substance use, and the troubling escalation they witnessed before leaving shortly before 4 p.m. Payne died just 67 minutes later after falling from the balcony of his third-floor room at the CasaSur Palermo Hotel. He was 31.
Bruno Marzi / MEGA
According to sworn statements obtained by the Daily Mail, Aldana Serrano and Lucila Goitea arrived at the CasaSur Palermo at approximately 11:30 a.m. after Payne allegedly contacted Serrano through an escort website. Serrano initially questioned whether she was actually communicating with the world-famous singer and reportedly asked him to prove his identity.
"Liam contacted me via WhatsApp today (October 16, 2024) around 11 am. The whole time he spoke to me in English. He told me who he was and he sent me a video of him. The video wasn't current; it was him singing," she told investigators. "He also sent me pictures of him which he took while he was in bed, before we got there."
The hotel reportedly collected the women's identification before allowing them to enter room 310, enabling authorities to locate them quickly following Payne's death. "He was alone in his room. He greeted us warmly and I asked him for payment. We tried to communicate, but it was difficult because he only spoke English and I only Spanish," Serrano recalled.
#casasur
Bruno Marzi / MEGA
According to sworn statements obtained by the Daily Mail, Aldana Serrano and Lucila Goitea arrived at the CasaSur Palermo at approximately 11:30 a.m. after Payne allegedly contacted Serrano through an escort website. Serrano initially questioned whether she was actually communicating with the world-famous singer and reportedly asked him to prove his identity.
"Liam contacted me via WhatsApp today (October 16, 2024) around 11 am. The whole time he spoke to me in English. He told me who he was and he sent me a video of him. The video wasn't current; it was him singing," she told investigators. "He also sent me pictures of him which he took while he was in bed, before we got there."
The hotel reportedly collected the women's identification before allowing them to enter room 310, enabling authorities to locate them quickly following Payne's death. "He was alone in his room. He greeted us warmly and I asked him for payment. We tried to communicate, but it was difficult because he only spoke English and I only Spanish," Serrano recalled.
#casasur
1 month ago
River Plate have opened formal negotiations with Real Madrid to re-sign teenage midfielder Franco Mastantuono on a season-long loan deal, according to football journalist Matteo Moretto.
The 18-year-old Argentine attacking midfielder is keen to return to his former club in Buenos Aires to secure regular playing time after a heavily disrupted debut season in Spain.
Mastantuono moved to the Santiago Bernabeu from River Plate last year in a high-profile transfer. However, he struggled to secure consistent minutes in a highly competitive Real Madrid squad
The teenager accumulated just 1,484 minutes of first-team football across 35 appearances last season, often coming off the substitutes' bench.
Mastantuono wants to return to River Plate. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
#Football
The 18-year-old Argentine attacking midfielder is keen to return to his former club in Buenos Aires to secure regular playing time after a heavily disrupted debut season in Spain.
Mastantuono moved to the Santiago Bernabeu from River Plate last year in a high-profile transfer. However, he struggled to secure consistent minutes in a highly competitive Real Madrid squad
The teenager accumulated just 1,484 minutes of first-team football across 35 appearances last season, often coming off the substitutes' bench.
Mastantuono wants to return to River Plate. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
#Football
2 months ago
(Refiles to correct dateline)
By Nicolás Misculin
BUENOS AIRES, July 16 (Reuters) - Higher global beef prices and new trade deals under President Javier Milei are encouraging Argentina's ranchers to raise heavier cattle, betting on a sustained export boom that could reshape the country's meat industry.
One **** yst said they expect exports from Argentina — famous for its asado barbecues, steakhouses and world-leading per capita beef consumption — to rise by as much as 50% over the next four years, building on strong export revenue growth already seen in 2026.
The shift marks a break from a longstanding model focused heavily on domestic consumption, as ranchers respond to stronger overseas demand from a range of markets, including the United States, Israel, Europe and China, alongside fresh trade opportunities created by new agreements with the U.S. and European Union.
By Nicolás Misculin
BUENOS AIRES, July 16 (Reuters) - Higher global beef prices and new trade deals under President Javier Milei are encouraging Argentina's ranchers to raise heavier cattle, betting on a sustained export boom that could reshape the country's meat industry.
One **** yst said they expect exports from Argentina — famous for its asado barbecues, steakhouses and world-leading per capita beef consumption — to rise by as much as 50% over the next four years, building on strong export revenue growth already seen in 2026.
The shift marks a break from a longstanding model focused heavily on domestic consumption, as ranchers respond to stronger overseas demand from a range of markets, including the United States, Israel, Europe and China, alongside fresh trade opportunities created by new agreements with the U.S. and European Union.
2 months ago
A group of Argentina supporters cranked up the pre-match hostility ahead of Wednesday's FIFA World Cup semifinal against England by BURNING the Union Jack. Footage captured a crowd of jubilant Argentines setting the flag ablaze in Escobar, on the outskirts of the capital, Buenos Aires.
Loud cheers ring out from the gathered crowd as the flames take hold. Several onlookers are also visible leaping into the air while chanting: "He who doesn't jump is an Englishman."
The clip is reported to have been filmed following Argentina's victory over Switzerland on Saturday, with the Three Lions having already secured their spot in the semifinals earlier that day. The reigning World Cup champions haven't faced England since a 2005 friendly, as per The Mirror.
Who is the referee for the Spain vs France FIFA World Cup semifinal?
Loud cheers ring out from the gathered crowd as the flames take hold. Several onlookers are also visible leaping into the air while chanting: "He who doesn't jump is an Englishman."
The clip is reported to have been filmed following Argentina's victory over Switzerland on Saturday, with the Three Lions having already secured their spot in the semifinals earlier that day. The reigning World Cup champions haven't faced England since a 2005 friendly, as per The Mirror.
Who is the referee for the Spain vs France FIFA World Cup semifinal?
2 months ago
Enzo Maresca is set to make the decisive call on Claudio Echeverri's Man City future this summer
Echeverri will first report to Man City before any decision on a loan or permanent move is taken
River Plate have pushed to bring the Argentine playmaker back to Buenos Aires this window
Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca will deliver his verdict on Claudio Echeverri's future when the Argentina youth international reports for pre-season, as per a new report.
Echeverri has been one of the most closely watched players within Manchester City's development structure since his arrival from River Plate, with the attacking midfielder's trajectory through two contrasting loan spells in European football leaving his long-term pathway at the Etihad Stadium firmly unresolved as the club enters a new managerial era.
Echeverri will first report to Man City before any decision on a loan or permanent move is taken
River Plate have pushed to bring the Argentine playmaker back to Buenos Aires this window
Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca will deliver his verdict on Claudio Echeverri's future when the Argentina youth international reports for pre-season, as per a new report.
Echeverri has been one of the most closely watched players within Manchester City's development structure since his arrival from River Plate, with the attacking midfielder's trajectory through two contrasting loan spells in European football leaving his long-term pathway at the Etihad Stadium firmly unresolved as the club enters a new managerial era.
2 months ago
Former Argentina captain Antonio Rattín, who was sent off in the 19966 World Cup quarter-final against England, died on Saturday at the age of 89, his club Boca Juniors confirmed.
His death was announced on the day Argentina and England won their World Cup quarter-finals to set up a semi-final between the two old rivals next Wednesday.
"With deep sorrow, we regret the passing of Antonio Ubaldo Rattin, an idol and emblem of our institutionm," Boca announced on social media.
"We stand with his family and loved ones in this difficult moment. Farewell 'Rata'."
Born on May 16, 1937, Rattin was a central midfielder with a strong personality who spent his entire career with the Buenos Aires club.
His death was announced on the day Argentina and England won their World Cup quarter-finals to set up a semi-final between the two old rivals next Wednesday.
"With deep sorrow, we regret the passing of Antonio Ubaldo Rattin, an idol and emblem of our institutionm," Boca announced on social media.
"We stand with his family and loved ones in this difficult moment. Farewell 'Rata'."
Born on May 16, 1937, Rattin was a central midfielder with a strong personality who spent his entire career with the Buenos Aires club.
2 months ago
Argentina don’t do it the easy way but if their defence of their World Cup is increasingly unconvincing, it goes on and on. Kansas City ended up bouncing like Buenos Aires, part of the Midwest resembling an Argentina home game, but euphoric scenes and a glorious goal stood in stark contrast to an utterly uninspired display.
They may not care. Not when they have a grudge match against England to concentrate the minds and a spectacular strike from Julian Alvarez to savour, arrowed into the top corner at the Arrowhead Stadium. Just when it seemed Argentina were hopelessly over-reliant on Lionel Messi, someone else delivered a moment of extreme quality. Then another Argentina centre-forward, Lautaro Martinez, gave the scoreline a flattering sheen in the 121st minute.
And yet it was really a tale of two strikers, neither of them Martinez. Alvarez, with his belated first goal of the World Cup, sent Argentina into a second successive semi-final. Breel Embolo may have cost Switzerland a first in their history. They had levelled and were the better side when his red card, eventual and involving VAR, for diving forced them into a rearguard action. They looked likely to hold out for penalties, Argentina seeming to have precious few ideas how to break them down, until Alvarez’s explosive intervention.
So, once again, Argentina advance in a manner that showed their spirit but highlighted flaws. Theirs looked as simple a route as could be imagined through the knockout stages – Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland – but they turned it into an obstacle course. They have twice gone to extra time, conceded five goals and flirted with elimination at each stage. But they can win games of brinkmanship.
Lionel Scaloni could at least point to his input here. The third goal involved two replacements, Martinez following up to score after Thiago Almada’s shot was blocked. Almada was an impact substitute: he had already flicked the post with a 20-yard drive. Yet Argentina were short of creativity, lacking any threat on the flanks. When Messi had a are quiet game – which still produced an **** ist – they were underwhelming. The captain’s scoring run ended at nine consecutive World Cup matches, another of the statistics that may not be repeated. For too long, however, Argentina looked a one-man team when the one man was enduring a rare off-day. He stirred late on, failing to lob Gregor Kobel and then shooting just wide at the end of regulation time, letting fly a couple of times in extra time. But for much of the evening, he was strolling around Missouri as Argentina were drifting.
They may not care. Not when they have a grudge match against England to concentrate the minds and a spectacular strike from Julian Alvarez to savour, arrowed into the top corner at the Arrowhead Stadium. Just when it seemed Argentina were hopelessly over-reliant on Lionel Messi, someone else delivered a moment of extreme quality. Then another Argentina centre-forward, Lautaro Martinez, gave the scoreline a flattering sheen in the 121st minute.
And yet it was really a tale of two strikers, neither of them Martinez. Alvarez, with his belated first goal of the World Cup, sent Argentina into a second successive semi-final. Breel Embolo may have cost Switzerland a first in their history. They had levelled and were the better side when his red card, eventual and involving VAR, for diving forced them into a rearguard action. They looked likely to hold out for penalties, Argentina seeming to have precious few ideas how to break them down, until Alvarez’s explosive intervention.
So, once again, Argentina advance in a manner that showed their spirit but highlighted flaws. Theirs looked as simple a route as could be imagined through the knockout stages – Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland – but they turned it into an obstacle course. They have twice gone to extra time, conceded five goals and flirted with elimination at each stage. But they can win games of brinkmanship.
Lionel Scaloni could at least point to his input here. The third goal involved two replacements, Martinez following up to score after Thiago Almada’s shot was blocked. Almada was an impact substitute: he had already flicked the post with a 20-yard drive. Yet Argentina were short of creativity, lacking any threat on the flanks. When Messi had a are quiet game – which still produced an **** ist – they were underwhelming. The captain’s scoring run ended at nine consecutive World Cup matches, another of the statistics that may not be repeated. For too long, however, Argentina looked a one-man team when the one man was enduring a rare off-day. He stirred late on, failing to lob Gregor Kobel and then shooting just wide at the end of regulation time, letting fly a couple of times in extra time. But for much of the evening, he was strolling around Missouri as Argentina were drifting.
2 months ago
KANSAS CITY, MO — Argentina is sporting black armbands in its World Cup quarterfinal match against Switzerland, mourning the loss of a player with an outsized impact on the sport of soccer.
The Argentine Football ****** ociation requested FIFA for permission to wear the armbands as a gesture of mourning for Antonio Rattin, who died at age 89 after a suspected stroke, according to his family.
That permission was granted, with players able to put the black band around the white sleeves of their primary jersey in Saturday night's final eight matchup.
Rattin's largest legacy is a visual symbol of the sport of soccer far more present than an armband.
A Boca Juniors legend who represented only the Buenos Aires club during a 14-year professional career, Rattin inadvertently altered the course of soccer history with his actions in a 1966 World Cup match.
The Argentine Football ****** ociation requested FIFA for permission to wear the armbands as a gesture of mourning for Antonio Rattin, who died at age 89 after a suspected stroke, according to his family.
That permission was granted, with players able to put the black band around the white sleeves of their primary jersey in Saturday night's final eight matchup.
Rattin's largest legacy is a visual symbol of the sport of soccer far more present than an armband.
A Boca Juniors legend who represented only the Buenos Aires club during a 14-year professional career, Rattin inadvertently altered the course of soccer history with his actions in a 1966 World Cup match.
2 months ago
Corriere dello Sport confirms that Napoli have an agreement in place with Boca Juniors talent Exequiel Zeballos, whose agent met Giovanni Manna in Naples earlier this week.
Boca Juniors winger Zeballos, 24, is ready to join Napoli and has already agreed to personal terms with the Serie A giants.
The news was first reported by Alfredo Pedullà earlier this week, and Corriere dello Sport adds more details about the agreement between Napoli and the Argentine.
According to the report, Zeballos has agreed to sign a four-year deal worth €1.3m per season. Zeballos' agent reportedly met Napoli director Manna in Naples on Wednesday, confirming his client's desire to move to the Stadio Maradona.
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – APRIL 14: Exequiel Zeballos of Boca Juniors runs with the ball during a Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2026 group D match between Boca Juniors and Barcelona SC at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on April 14, 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Boca Juniors winger Zeballos, 24, is ready to join Napoli and has already agreed to personal terms with the Serie A giants.
The news was first reported by Alfredo Pedullà earlier this week, and Corriere dello Sport adds more details about the agreement between Napoli and the Argentine.
According to the report, Zeballos has agreed to sign a four-year deal worth €1.3m per season. Zeballos' agent reportedly met Napoli director Manna in Naples on Wednesday, confirming his client's desire to move to the Stadio Maradona.
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – APRIL 14: Exequiel Zeballos of Boca Juniors runs with the ball during a Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2026 group D match between Boca Juniors and Barcelona SC at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on April 14, 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
2 months ago
Lionel Messi's words echoed through Buenos Aires Cathedral on Thursday as Archbishop Jorge Garcia Cuerva quoted Argentina's captain during a Mass marking the country's Independence Day with the national team preparing for a World Cup quarter-final against Switzerland.
Garcia Cuerva used Messi's message after the team's 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar as a call for unity in a ceremony also attended by Argentine President Javier Milei.
"Let us keep our shirts on, and with passion, let us bring to life the message that Lionel Messi once posted on his social media," García Cuerva said during the service before reading the words the talismanic forward wrote four years ago.
"When we Argentines fight together and stand united, we are capable of achieving whatever we set our minds to," Messi said.
The reference came two days after Argentina beat Egypt 3-2 in a dramatic comeback, having trailed 2-0, to reach the last eight of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Garcia Cuerva used Messi's message after the team's 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar as a call for unity in a ceremony also attended by Argentine President Javier Milei.
"Let us keep our shirts on, and with passion, let us bring to life the message that Lionel Messi once posted on his social media," García Cuerva said during the service before reading the words the talismanic forward wrote four years ago.
"When we Argentines fight together and stand united, we are capable of achieving whatever we set our minds to," Messi said.
The reference came two days after Argentina beat Egypt 3-2 in a dramatic comeback, having trailed 2-0, to reach the last eight of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
2 months ago
Spontaneous celebrations broke out in Argentina after the national team's dramatic 3-2 win over Egypt on Tuesday to reach the quarter-finals of the World Cup.
In the capital Buenos Aires, several thousand people gathered around the Obelisk to celebrate Lionel Messi and his team-mates. Well into the evening, they turned parts of the city centre into a party zone.
It was above all the way Argentina team turned the game around in the closing minutes after trailing 2-0 that sent the fans into a frenzy and sparked hope for more.
The events in the provincial capital of San Miguel de Tucumán, however, saw the celebrations quickly turn into violence.
According to media reports, clashes broke out between fans and the police, and security forces used rubber bullets to clear the area.
In the capital Buenos Aires, several thousand people gathered around the Obelisk to celebrate Lionel Messi and his team-mates. Well into the evening, they turned parts of the city centre into a party zone.
It was above all the way Argentina team turned the game around in the closing minutes after trailing 2-0 that sent the fans into a frenzy and sparked hope for more.
The events in the provincial capital of San Miguel de Tucumán, however, saw the celebrations quickly turn into violence.
According to media reports, clashes broke out between fans and the police, and security forces used rubber bullets to clear the area.
2 months ago
The Lionel Messi World Cup obits were starting to be written. It’s a good bet that some were finalized. Egypt led Argentina 2-0 in a World Cup quarterfinal Tuesday afternoon, in the 79th minute. A new World Cup champion would be crowned. Fold Cristiano Ronaldo into the piece. On back-to-back days, the two defining players of the past 20 years would exit the World Cup stage, most likely for good, given their ages. End of an era.
Idiots. (Present company included.) All scribes who had to scrap their stories got what they deserved. Haven’t we all watched enough of Messi in our lifetime?
An amazing, wondrous Argentina comeback unfolded on the pitch in Atlanta. And as well as Egypt played in almost pulling off a monumental upset, and as sympathetic we can all feel for the players and fans of the Pharaohs, Messi’s continued presence at this World Cup, after that breathtaking 3-2 Argentina victory on Tuesday, feels like divine intervention.
At age 39, Messi now has eight goals in this World Cup, more than any other player entering the quarterfinals. He started the tournament off with his first career World Cup hat trick and has now bookended his effort with a goal that, if Argentina should go on to win back-to-back World Cups, will be revered in Buenos Aires and beyond for generations.
Yasser Ibrahim scored for Egypt in the 15th minute to give the Pharaohs the early advantage. Egypt keeper Mostafa Shoubir denied Messi a penalty kick goal in the 21st minute, making Messi the first player to miss two penalties in the same tournament (excluding shoot-outs). Despite that setback, Argentina kept knocking on the door going into halftime. But some stellar saves from Shoubir kept the Pharaohs ahead.
Idiots. (Present company included.) All scribes who had to scrap their stories got what they deserved. Haven’t we all watched enough of Messi in our lifetime?
An amazing, wondrous Argentina comeback unfolded on the pitch in Atlanta. And as well as Egypt played in almost pulling off a monumental upset, and as sympathetic we can all feel for the players and fans of the Pharaohs, Messi’s continued presence at this World Cup, after that breathtaking 3-2 Argentina victory on Tuesday, feels like divine intervention.
At age 39, Messi now has eight goals in this World Cup, more than any other player entering the quarterfinals. He started the tournament off with his first career World Cup hat trick and has now bookended his effort with a goal that, if Argentina should go on to win back-to-back World Cups, will be revered in Buenos Aires and beyond for generations.
Yasser Ibrahim scored for Egypt in the 15th minute to give the Pharaohs the early advantage. Egypt keeper Mostafa Shoubir denied Messi a penalty kick goal in the 21st minute, making Messi the first player to miss two penalties in the same tournament (excluding shoot-outs). Despite that setback, Argentina kept knocking on the door going into halftime. But some stellar saves from Shoubir kept the Pharaohs ahead.
2 months ago
Wales have arrived in Argentina to continue almost 60 years of history travelling to face the Pumas in their own backyard.
It has been eight years since Wales previously toured South America, although this will just be a passing visit with one Nations Championship game in San Juan before Steve Tandy's side move on to face South Africa in Durban.
Wales have never before made the 7,000-mile trip to play just one game on these shores, with the squad arriving in Argentina on two different flights.
There have been plenty of dramas and incidents during previous Wales visits to Buenos Aires and beyond.
BBC Sport Wales charts the colourful history of when the Pumas have hosted Wales.
It has been eight years since Wales previously toured South America, although this will just be a passing visit with one Nations Championship game in San Juan before Steve Tandy's side move on to face South Africa in Durban.
Wales have never before made the 7,000-mile trip to play just one game on these shores, with the squad arriving in Argentina on two different flights.
There have been plenty of dramas and incidents during previous Wales visits to Buenos Aires and beyond.
BBC Sport Wales charts the colourful history of when the Pumas have hosted Wales.
2 months ago
Fiorentina's interest in Tomas Aranda could be complicated by the arrival of Premier League competition, with ******* nal now monitoring the Boca Juniors midfielder.
The 20-year-old is regarded as one of the most exciting talents in South American football, and in recent weeks Fiorentina took the first steps to explore the feasibility of bringing him to Fabio Grosso's side.
According to a report from El Transigente, via FirenzeViola, however, the Gunners' scouts are now watching him closely too.
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – MARCH 22: Tomas Aranda of Boca Juniors celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during a Torneo Apertura Mercado Libre 2026 match between Boca Juniors and Instituto de Cordoba at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on March 22, 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Arsenal are keeping tabs on the youngster's development, though it remains to be seen whether they will follow through with a concrete move, the London club have yet to decide whether to lodge an official offer.
The 20-year-old is regarded as one of the most exciting talents in South American football, and in recent weeks Fiorentina took the first steps to explore the feasibility of bringing him to Fabio Grosso's side.
According to a report from El Transigente, via FirenzeViola, however, the Gunners' scouts are now watching him closely too.
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – MARCH 22: Tomas Aranda of Boca Juniors celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during a Torneo Apertura Mercado Libre 2026 match between Boca Juniors and Instituto de Cordoba at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on March 22, 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Arsenal are keeping tabs on the youngster's development, though it remains to be seen whether they will follow through with a concrete move, the London club have yet to decide whether to lodge an official offer.
2 months ago
Aston Villa's scouting network has focused its gaze on South America. Reports from Argentine outlet El Crack Deportivo, via Sport Witness, suggest the Midlands club are keeping a very close watch on River Plate's rising star, Santiago Beltrán. The 21-year-old shot-stopper is attracting attention after a brilliant breakthrough year.
Right now, it is just monitoring. No official bids have landed on the table in Buenos Aires, and formal talks haven't started. River Plate manager Eduardo Coudet leans heavily on the young keeper, who has quickly become indispensable to his side. His form even earned him a senior international debut for Argentina against Honduras recently.
It is easy to see why Europe is paying attention. Since breaking into the first team in January, the youngster has kept 13 clean sheets in 26 games, letting in just 18 goals. His current contract runs until December 2027, featuring a release clause sitting at €21.3 million, roughly £18.3 million. River Plate want to ***** p that figure up as soon as possible. They know what's coming. Heavy hitters like Chelsea have already sniffed around, watching his rapid rise through the ranks.
CORDOBA, ARGENTINA – MAY 24: Santiago Beltran of River Plate warms up prior to the Torneo Apertura 2026 final match between River Plate and Belgrano at Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium on May 24, 2026 in Cordoba, Argentina. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)
The numbers behind his performances show exactly why top-tier clubs are tracking him. Standing 1.91 metres tall, Beltrán dominates his box. He isn't just a big frame, though. Being left-footed gives him a distinct advantage, allowing River Plate to build out from the back with real accuracy.
Right now, it is just monitoring. No official bids have landed on the table in Buenos Aires, and formal talks haven't started. River Plate manager Eduardo Coudet leans heavily on the young keeper, who has quickly become indispensable to his side. His form even earned him a senior international debut for Argentina against Honduras recently.
It is easy to see why Europe is paying attention. Since breaking into the first team in January, the youngster has kept 13 clean sheets in 26 games, letting in just 18 goals. His current contract runs until December 2027, featuring a release clause sitting at €21.3 million, roughly £18.3 million. River Plate want to ***** p that figure up as soon as possible. They know what's coming. Heavy hitters like Chelsea have already sniffed around, watching his rapid rise through the ranks.
CORDOBA, ARGENTINA – MAY 24: Santiago Beltran of River Plate warms up prior to the Torneo Apertura 2026 final match between River Plate and Belgrano at Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium on May 24, 2026 in Cordoba, Argentina. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)
The numbers behind his performances show exactly why top-tier clubs are tracking him. Standing 1.91 metres tall, Beltrán dominates his box. He isn't just a big frame, though. Being left-footed gives him a distinct advantage, allowing River Plate to build out from the back with real accuracy.
2 months ago
SEATTLE — Make no mistake: Mauricio Pochettino is pure Argentine.
"I am 200 percent Argentine," he said, beaming. "I am not going to lie."
He grew up in a farming village some 250 miles west of Buenos Aires, launched his career in Rosario and wore La Albiceleste's colors in a World Cup. Passion spouts when he speaks about the love for his country and everything it has brought to sports and culture.
His additional loyalties are with Europe, where he played and coached across decades.
But on the most American of holidays, as the coach of a U.S. World Cup team that, through style and substance, has rekindled national spirit and helped unite a divided land, Pochettino continues embracing his adoptive country.
"I am 200 percent Argentine," he said, beaming. "I am not going to lie."
He grew up in a farming village some 250 miles west of Buenos Aires, launched his career in Rosario and wore La Albiceleste's colors in a World Cup. Passion spouts when he speaks about the love for his country and everything it has brought to sports and culture.
His additional loyalties are with Europe, where he played and coached across decades.
But on the most American of holidays, as the coach of a U.S. World Cup team that, through style and substance, has rekindled national spirit and helped unite a divided land, Pochettino continues embracing his adoptive country.
2 months ago
By Lucila Sigal
BUENOS AIRES, June 24 (Reuters) - Moved by Lionel Messi's record-breaking form at the World Cup, Argentines have taken to the streets and social media to sing "Happy Birthday" to their favourite footballer who turned 39 on Wednesday.
Under the hashtag #CumpleLEO , Telefé, a local television channel, launched a campaign for Argentines to sing "Happy Birthday" to him at 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. local time, an allusion to the number 10 shirt worn by the Argentina captain.
Waving Argentine flags, groups of friends at the gym, children in schools, shop employees and neighbours gathered around the country and filled social media with messages of congratulations.
"Thank you for so much joy and for representing Argentina at the highest level. Happy birthday, champion!" posted a group of workers from a car dealership in the province of Buenos Aires.
BUENOS AIRES, June 24 (Reuters) - Moved by Lionel Messi's record-breaking form at the World Cup, Argentines have taken to the streets and social media to sing "Happy Birthday" to their favourite footballer who turned 39 on Wednesday.
Under the hashtag #CumpleLEO , Telefé, a local television channel, launched a campaign for Argentines to sing "Happy Birthday" to him at 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. local time, an allusion to the number 10 shirt worn by the Argentina captain.
Waving Argentine flags, groups of friends at the gym, children in schools, shop employees and neighbours gathered around the country and filled social media with messages of congratulations.
"Thank you for so much joy and for representing Argentina at the highest level. Happy birthday, champion!" posted a group of workers from a car dealership in the province of Buenos Aires.
2 months ago
Argentinian football fans filling the bars in Buenos Aires on Monday were able to celebrate iconic World Cup moments by two vastly different characters -- Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.
For the late tortured genius that was Maradona it was the 40th anniversary of his 'Hand of God' goal in the 1986 quarter-final with England, on his way to almost single-handedly winning the trophy for Argentina.
For the clean-cut Messi it was another record -- his double against Austria at the 2026 tournament on Monday that made him the all-time World Cup goal scorer with 18.
Maradona, despite his excesses off the pitch and his failed doping test in the 1994 World Cup, remains a hero to many.
It's fair to say controversy and Messi are not often mentioned in the same breath -- reverence for him is confined to his successes on the pitch.
For the late tortured genius that was Maradona it was the 40th anniversary of his 'Hand of God' goal in the 1986 quarter-final with England, on his way to almost single-handedly winning the trophy for Argentina.
For the clean-cut Messi it was another record -- his double against Austria at the 2026 tournament on Monday that made him the all-time World Cup goal scorer with 18.
Maradona, despite his excesses off the pitch and his failed doping test in the 1994 World Cup, remains a hero to many.
It's fair to say controversy and Messi are not often mentioned in the same breath -- reverence for him is confined to his successes on the pitch.
