He grew up in the Boca Juniors youth team and made his debut for the national team, scoring the first goal in Naples and the second in Malta. In his debut he united Maradona’s two lands again, although it wasn’t enough to come back for England. There is Diego’s mark in the destiny of Mateo Reteguithe striker Roberto Mancini picked up in the Argentine championship, taking him from the Tigre and giving him, thanks to his Italian citizenship, the chance to choose the national team.
“Retegui unlocked this challenge, he was fundamental. He needs time, he still needs to know European football well,” said Mancini after the match against Malta.
Mateo Retegui he accepted the new challenge finding himself playing in Europe for the first time after years with clubs at home, from Boca to Estudiantes and now Tigre. He was born in San Fernando but his family, especially his grandfather, was born in Canicattì, in the province of Syracuse and then emigrated to Argentina.
“I’m sad about the defeat, but very happy to have made my debut in this country’s shirt”, were his first blue words, after the Italy-England match, obviously in Argentina. “For my family and for me it is a pride to represent these colors. I would have liked it to have been a debut with a win, but we have to work to correct the mistakes and win the next one.” Arrived in Italy, Mateo Retegui he had a long dialogue with Mancini, he spent a few days in training camp with the national team and immediately got a starting shirt. The blue coach believed in him after seeing him in the Argentine championship but also after seeing his determination on the pitch at Coverciano. He compared him to Batistuta when he arrived in Italy, Mancini, who gave him the starting shirt, betting on him in the debut of the new Italy in the qualifiers for the 2024 European Championships.
For Retegui yes and the national team opens a new path.
Source: Ansa
Brayden White, a veteran sports writer at Global Happening, brings his wealth of knowledge and expertise to the sports section. With over a decade of experience, he is committed to delivering high-quality coverage of the latest games and events.
