When Matías Soule, forward of AS Roma, was asked whether he might don the Azzurri jersey, Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni didn’t mince words: “I don’t think it’s possible, he’s been our sights for quite a while.” The comment came during a pre‑match press conference in Miami, Florida, ahead of a friendly against Puerto Rico national football team. Scaloni’s blunt denial signals that the 22‑year‑old Italo‑Argentine’s future lies squarely with the Argentina national team – a point that matters for the Albiceleste’s World Cup qualifying build‑up.
Background: A dual‑national talent on the rise
Born on 15 April 2003 in Río Gallegos, Santa Cruz, Matías Soule holds both Argentine and Italian passports, making him eligible under FIFA’s Article 5. He moved from Boca Juniors to AS Roma in January 2023 for a reported €12 million. In his debut Serie A season he logged 13 appearances and found the net twice, prompting whispers that he could be a quick‑fire option for either national side.
The agent’s suggestion and the Italian media buzz
On 7 October 2025, Martin Guastadisegno – Soule’s representative – told Italian outlet LaRoma24.it that the forward “might consider Italy if not called up by Argentina soon.” Guastadisegno argued that Soule’s dream of a World Cup is “up in the air” and reminded fans that the player’s Italian lineage satisfies the legal criteria for a one‑time switch. Those comments reverberated through Italian sports channels, where pundits debated whether the Azzurri could afford a newcomer ahead of Euro 2028 qualifiers.
Scaloni’s response: A strategic move
At the Miami briefing, the Argentine coach was asked directly about the rumors. He replied, “We see him as part of the future for the Argentina national team, and he will have his chances soon. I’ve been following his performances for some time; if he continues like this, there will be no issues.” FIFA rules that a player who has already appeared in an official senior match for one association cannot switch; Soule remains uncapped, keeping the door open – but Scaloni’s wording suggests the door is now firmly locked on the Italian side.
The upcoming friendly – a testing ground
During the Argentina vs Puerto Rico friendlyMiami Dade Stadium on 20 October, Scaloni is expected to hand Soule his first senior minutes. The match, part of the South American side’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, offers a low‑pressure environment for debutants. The venue, chosen to engage the sizable Argentine diaspora in the United States, mirrors the CONMEBOL strategy of staging “home” games abroad.
Reactions from the Italian side
The Italian Football Federation (Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio) issued a brief statement noting “respect for the player’s decision” while keeping scouting reports on Soule active. Former Azzurri striker Alessandro Del Piero hinted on social media that “if the Argentine coach truly envisions him, Italy might have to look elsewhere for a young forward.” The sentiment reflects a broader concern: Italy’s attacking options have thinned since the retirement of Andrea Belotti in 2022.
What this means for Argentina’s squad
Scaloni’s assurance arrives at a critical juncture. The Albiceleste will soon face Peru, Bolivia and Colombia in the early qualifying round. With Lionel Messi retired and Paulo Dybala nursing injuries, the forward line needs fresh blood. Guillermo Barros Schelotto, a former Argentine international turned pundit, remarked, “Soule offers that blend of pace and technical knack we’ve missed since the Messi era. Give him a chance and you’ll see a new dimension in our attack.”
Broader implications for dual‑national players
The Soule episode underscores how national teams are increasingly proactive in securing dual‑eligible talent before opponents can. In the last five years, FIFA has seen cases like Jude Bellingham (eligible for both England and Ireland) and Ayoub Mahgoub (Egypt‑France). Scaloni’s early “lock‑in” strategy could become a template for South American coaches who fear talent drain to European nations.
Looking ahead: What’s next for Soule?
If Soule earns his debut on 20 October, he could join the list of Argentine youngsters—like Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez—who broke through in friendlies before becoming tournament staples. The next step would be a call‑up for the September‑October 2025 World Cup qualifying windows. Conversely, if he remains on the bench, the conversation about an Italian switch may resurface, though Scaloni’s recent remarks suggest the Argentine federation will keep a tight leash on the player’s international destiny.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this decision affect Italy's plans for upcoming matches?
Italy loses a potential forward option for Euro 2028 qualifiers. Coach Luciano Spalletti will likely look to domestic talents such as Niccolò Romito, but the squad’s depth remains a concern, especially after recent injuries to key strikers.
What are the chances that Matías Soule will earn his first Argentina cap this year?
Given Scaloni’s public endorsement and the friendly against Puerto Rico, Soule is expected to get at least a ten‑minute cameo. If he impresses, a full‑match invitation for the September 2025 qualifiers is plausible.
How does FIFA's eligibility rule apply to dual nationals like Soule?
FIFA allows a switch only if a player has not played a competitive senior match for another association. Soule is still uncapped, so technically he could file a one‑time switch to Italy, but a senior‑level appearance for Argentina would permanently tie him to the Albiceleste.
What impact could this have on AS Roma's season?
Roma’s manager Daniele De Rossi has hinted that Soule could become a regular starter if he gains confidence from international exposure. A national team debut often translates into increased market value and more playing time at club level.
When is the Argentina vs Puerto Rico friendly taking place?
The match is scheduled for 20 October 2025 at Miami Dade Stadium, with a 90‑minute kick‑off slated for 19:30 local time.
