In a sporting context, the cross-cultural exchange between Argentina and Italy is perhaps the most fruitful and celebrated in the history of football. Starting in the early 20th century, waves of Italian
immigrants arrived on the shores of Argentina, bringing the most cherished aspects of their culture to the New World, including their unique brand of calcio. From subtly changing the style of play to founding one of the biggest clubs in the country, Italy’s historical imprint on Argentinian football is evident. At the same time, Argentina sent many of their best and brightest footballers to the Italian Peninsula, transforming Serie A into one the premier league’s in global football.
And every so often, these two cultures come together on the international stage. From Raimondo Orsi and Luis Monti in the 1930s, who helped Italy hoist the 1934 World Cup trophy, to Mauro Camoranesi, who did the same in 2006, all the way to Matteo Retegui, who currently stars for the Azzurri, Italy’s national team has been strengthened by several notable Argentinian footballers.
With Italy suffering through a dark period over the past decade or more, one could hardly blame the Italian Federation for trying to repeat that feat with a new generation of Argentine footballers of Italian descent. After successfully swaying Retegui to the Italian cause, the FIGC attempted to repeat their success with another intriguing Argentine attacker—our very own Matías Soulé.
Last week, we discussed Soulé’s potential switch to the Azzurri, a story driven by his agent. Many suggested this was merely a power play from Soulé’s team, but earlier today, the 22-year-old Mar del Plata native confirmed Italy’s interest while reiterating his desire to play for Argentina—an honor he has yet to earn.
Despite scoring 20 goals and providing 10 assists in his brief Serie A career (Frosinone, Juventus, and Roma), Soulé hasn’t been capped by Argentina at the senior level, leaving him eligible to switch allegiances. While we can credit the FIGC with taking a big swing, Argentina manager Luis Scaloni dispelled the notion, citing Soulé as part of the national team’s future:
“Soulé is on our radar — just like many other young players we believe can help the team. He’s already spent time with us, as have Buonanotte, Garnacho, and Carboni. They’re talented youngsters we see as part of the national team’s future, and we’ll bring them in when we feel the time is right. That’s the plan.”
Whether its with Italy or Argentina, it will be exciting to see a Roma player star on the international stage.
