Argentina will be present… even beyond "La Albiceleste"

Argentina is one of the historic powerhouses of world football, but its influence extends far beyond its own national team, as several players born on Argentine soil will compete at the 2026 World Cup while representing other countries.

Some grew up in Argentina before emigrating, while others found international opportunities different from those offered by La Albiceleste. They all share the same origin, but they will experience the World Cup under different flags.

Mateo Retegui – Italy

Mateo Retegui was born in San Fernando, Buenos Aires Province, and for years was considered one of Argentina’s most promising talents.

However, in 2023 he received a call-up from Italy thanks to his family heritage and decided to embrace the opportunity. Since then, he has become an important figure for the Azzurri.

At the 2026 World Cup, he will be one of Italy’s main attacking threats and will look to help the four-time champions return to the top tier of international football.

Luka Romero – Mexico

Although he was born in Mexico and also holds Spanish nationality, Luka Romero represented Argentina at youth level for several years. However, his international situation eventually changed, and he became part of Mexico’s project heading toward 2026.

His talent and attacking versatility make him one of El Tri’s most intriguing prospects.

Gabriel Arias – Chile

Gabriel Arias was born in Neuquén, Argentina, but chose to represent Chile thanks to family ties that allowed him to obtain Chilean nationality.

The goalkeeper built a solid career both at club level and with the Chilean national team, becoming a reliable presence between the posts.

Héctor Cuéllar – Bolivia

Héctor Cuéllar was born in Argentina and later became connected to Bolivian football, the country he ultimately chose to represent internationally.

The midfielder has emerged as an important figure in Bolivia’s rebuilding process and heads to the 2026 World Cup as part of a generation aiming to restore prominence to La Verde.

Ezequiel Ham – Syria

Another notable case is Ezequiel Ham, who was born in Buenos Aires and represents Syria at the international level.

The midfielder, remembered in Argentina for his time with traditional clubs in the country, accepted Syria’s call-up and became an important member of the Asian national team.

Ibrahim Hesar – Syria

Ibrahim Hesar was born in Villa Ascasubi, Córdoba, Argentina, and chose to represent Syria through his family heritage.

The forward has been one of the standout players during Syria’s qualifying campaign and arrives at the World Cup as one of his nation’s main attacking weapons.

A World Cup that once again proves football has no borders

Although Argentina will arrive as the defending champions, the country will also have indirect representation across several national teams thanks to players born within its borders.

The World Cup will once again bring together unique journeys, proving that birthplace is only one part of the story each footballer chooses to write.