Argentina's 2014 World Cup Squad: Where Are They Now?
The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil was a heart-stopping ride for Argentina. Led by the legendary Lionel Messi, La Albiceleste captivated fans worldwide with their skill, determination, and near-miss glory. While they ultimately fell short against Germany in the final, the tournament etched the names of that squad into Argentinian football folklore. So, what happened to those players? Where are they now? Let's dive in and catch up with the heroes (and a few unsung contributors) of Argentina's 2014 World Cup journey.
The Goalkeepers
The goalkeepers are key to any successful team, and Argentina's 2014 squad was no exception. Sergio Romero was the undisputed number one. Romero's penalty-saving heroics were crucial throughout the tournament, particularly in the semi-final shootout against the Netherlands. After the World Cup, Romero continued his career at Manchester United, serving primarily as a backup goalkeeper. He later moved to Venezia and then to Boca Juniors in Argentina. While no longer the first-choice keeper for the national team, Romero remains a respected figure in Argentinian football, fondly remembered for his contributions in 2014. His experience and shot-stopping ability have made him a valuable asset to any team he's been a part of, showcasing the resilience and longevity that defines a top-level goalkeeper. Beyond his club career, Romero's legacy is intertwined with his national team appearances. His calm demeanor under pressure and his knack for making crucial saves in penalty shootouts have solidified his place in Argentinian football history, making him an inspiration for aspiring goalkeepers across the nation.
Mariano Andújar served as the backup to Romero. A seasoned veteran, Andújar provided valuable experience and support from the bench. After the World Cup, he continued his career in Italy and Argentina. While he didn't feature prominently in the tournament, his presence in the squad provided stability and depth, a testament to his professionalism and commitment to the team. Andújar's career has been marked by consistent performances and a dedication to his craft, earning him respect from teammates and fans alike. His role as a backup goalkeeper in the 2014 World Cup squad underscores the importance of having experienced players who can contribute to the team's morale and provide reliable cover when needed.
Agustín Orión was the third goalkeeper in the squad, adding further depth to the goalkeeping options. While he didn't see any game time, his inclusion reflected his consistent performances in domestic football. Orión's career has been characterized by his shot-stopping abilities and his commanding presence in the penalty area. He has been a reliable presence for various clubs throughout his career, earning him recognition as one of the top goalkeepers in Argentinian football. His inclusion in the 2014 World Cup squad was a testament to his talent and his contributions to the sport.
The Defenders
The Argentinian defense in 2014 was a blend of experience and emerging talent. Pablo Zabaleta, a tireless right-back, was a mainstay in the team. Known for his relentless energy and defensive solidity, Zabaleta was a key figure in both defense and attack. After the World Cup, he continued playing for Manchester City before moving to West Ham United. His contributions to Argentinian football have been immense, and he is remembered as one of the most consistent and reliable defenders of his generation. Zabaleta's work ethic and commitment to the team made him a valuable asset, both on and off the field. His leadership qualities and his ability to inspire his teammates have solidified his place as a respected figure in Argentinian football history.
Ezequiel Garay partnered with Federico Fernández in central defense. Garay's aerial ability and tackling prowess made him a formidable opponent for any striker. After the World Cup, he played for Zenit Saint Petersburg and Valencia. His commanding presence in the backline provided stability and security for the Argentinian defense. Garay's career has been marked by consistent performances and a dedication to his craft, earning him recognition as one of the top defenders in the world. His partnership with Fernández in the 2014 World Cup was crucial to Argentina's success, showcasing his ability to form strong defensive partnerships and contribute to the team's overall performance.
Federico Fernández brought composure and aerial strength to the defense. After the World Cup, he played for Swansea City, Newcastle United, and currently represents Elche. Fernández's ability to read the game and his calmness under pressure made him a valuable asset to the team. His contributions to Argentinian football have been significant, and he is respected for his professionalism and dedication to the sport. Fernández's career has been marked by consistent performances and a commitment to excellence, earning him recognition as one of the top defenders in Argentinian football.
Marcos Rojo, a versatile player who could play both left-back and center-back, was a key member of the squad. After the World Cup, he moved to Manchester United, where he had a mixed spell. Rojo's versatility and commitment made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to adapt to different positions and his willingness to put his body on the line made him a popular figure among fans. Rojo's career has been characterized by his passion for the game and his dedication to his team.
José María Basanta provided defensive cover and experience. After the World Cup, he continued his career in Mexico and Argentina. While he didn't feature prominently in the tournament, his presence in the squad provided valuable depth and experience. Basanta's career has been marked by consistent performances and a dedication to his craft, earning him respect from teammates and fans alike. His role as a backup defender in the 2014 World Cup squad underscores the importance of having experienced players who can contribute to the team's morale and provide reliable cover when needed.
Hugo Campagnaro was another experienced defender in the squad. After the World Cup, he continued his career in Italy. Campagnaro's experience and tactical awareness made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to read the game and his composure under pressure made him a reliable presence in the backline. Campagnaro's career has been marked by consistent performances and a dedication to his craft, earning him recognition as one of the top defenders in Argentinian football.
Martín Demichelis provided veteran leadership and experience to the defense. After the World Cup, he played for Manchester City and Espanyol before retiring. Demichelis's experience and tactical awareness made him a valuable asset to the team. His leadership qualities and his ability to organize the defense made him a key figure in Argentina's success. Demichelis's career has been marked by consistent performances and a dedication to his craft, earning him recognition as one of the top defenders in Argentinian football.
The Midfielders
The Midfielders were the engine room of the Argentinian team. Javier Mascherano, the midfield general, was the heart and soul of the team. Known for his incredible work rate, tackling ability, and leadership, Mascherano was a true warrior on the pitch. After the World Cup, he moved to Barcelona, where he continued to excel. Mascherano's contributions to Argentinian football are immeasurable, and he is regarded as one of the greatest players in the country's history. His leadership qualities and his unwavering commitment to the team made him a role model for aspiring footballers around the world.
Fernando Gago was a creative midfielder known for his passing range and vision. Injuries hampered his career, but he remained a valuable member of the squad. After the World Cup, he returned to Boca Juniors. Gago's ability to dictate the tempo of the game and his creativity in midfield made him a valuable asset to the team. His career has been marked by moments of brilliance and a dedication to his craft.
Ángel Di María, a dynamic winger, provided pace, skill, and goals. His injury in the quarter-final against Belgium was a major blow to Argentina's chances. After the World Cup, he played for Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and currently represents Juventus. Di María's ability to create chances and score goals made him a key player for Argentina. His pace, skill, and work rate made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Di María's career has been marked by moments of brilliance and a dedication to his craft, earning him recognition as one of the top wingers in the world.
Lucas Biglia was a steady and reliable presence in midfield. After the World Cup, he played for Lazio and AC Milan. Biglia's work rate and tactical awareness made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball effectively made him a reliable presence in midfield.
Enzo Pérez was a versatile midfielder who could play in various positions. After the World Cup, he played for Valencia and River Plate. Pérez's versatility and work rate made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to adapt to different positions and his willingness to put his body on the line made him a popular figure among fans.
Maxi Rodríguez, an experienced winger, provided valuable experience and leadership. After the World Cup, he returned to Newell's Old Boys in Argentina. Rodríguez's experience and tactical awareness made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to read the game and his composure under pressure made him a reliable presence on the wing.
Ricardo Álvarez was a creative midfielder who provided attacking flair. After the World Cup, he played for Sunderland and Sampdoria. Álvarez's creativity and attacking flair made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to create chances and score goals made him a threat to opposing defenses.
The Forwards
The Forwards were led by the one and only Lionel Messi. Messi, the captain and talisman, carried the hopes of a nation on his shoulders. While he didn't reach his absolute peak in the tournament, he still produced moments of magic. After the World Cup, he continued his legendary career at Barcelona before moving to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami. Messi's impact on Argentinian football is immeasurable, and he is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. His skill, vision, and goal-scoring ability have made him a global icon, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of footballers.
Gonzalo Higuaín was the team's main striker. While he missed some crucial chances in the tournament, he remained a valuable member of the squad. After the World Cup, he played for Napoli, Juventus, AC Milan, Chelsea, and Inter Miami. Higuaín's goal-scoring ability and his work rate made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to find the back of the net and his willingness to work hard for the team made him a popular figure among fans.
Sergio Agüero provided attacking firepower off the bench. After the World Cup, he continued his successful career at Manchester City before moving to Barcelona. Agüero's goal-scoring ability and his work rate made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to find the back of the net and his willingness to work hard for the team made him a popular figure among fans.
Ezequiel Lavezzi was a hard-working winger who provided energy and determination. After the World Cup, he played for Paris Saint-Germain and Hebei China Fortune. Lavezzi's work rate and determination made him a valuable asset to the team. His willingness to run and chase down every ball made him a popular figure among fans.
Rodrigo Palacio provided attacking depth and experience. After the World Cup, he continued his career at Inter Milan and Bologna. Palacio's experience and tactical awareness made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to read the game and his composure under pressure made him a reliable presence in the attack.
Conclusion
The 2014 Argentinian World Cup squad may not have lifted the trophy, but they left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans. From Romero's penalty saves to Messi's brilliance and Mascherano's unwavering commitment, each player contributed to a memorable journey. While their careers have taken them to different corners of the globe, their shared experience in Brazil will forever bind them together as a team that came so close to achieving ultimate glory. Looking back, it's clear that the spirit and determination of that squad continue to resonate with Argentinian football fans, serving as a reminder of the passion and dedication that define La Albiceleste.
