Argentina's 2014 World Cup Squad: Where Are They Now?

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Ah, the 2014 World Cup! What a ride, right? Especially if you're an Argentina fan. The thrill, the drama, and that agonizingly close finish. Today, let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Argentina squad that fought tooth and nail in Brazil. But more than just a roll call, we'll explore where these players are now, what they're up to, and how their careers have evolved since that unforgettable summer. Get ready for a nostalgia trip, guys!

The Goalkeepers

  • Sergio Romero: Back in 2014, Romero was the undisputed number one for Argentina. His penalty shootout heroics against the Netherlands in the semi-final cemented his place in Argentine football folklore. After the World Cup, Romero continued his career at Manchester United, often playing second fiddle to David de Gea. Despite limited game time, he remained a reliable option and a seasoned professional. Today, Romero is still actively playing, showcasing his experience and leadership. His journey post-2014 has been a testament to his dedication and enduring passion for the sport. Romero's contributions extend beyond the field, as he serves as an inspiration to aspiring goalkeepers. His career trajectory exemplifies the resilience and adaptability required to thrive at the highest levels of professional football. Romero's continued presence in the footballing world underscores his unwavering commitment to the sport, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in Argentine football history. He remains an active participant, contributing his expertise and passion to the beautiful game.

  • Mariano AndĂșjar: A veteran presence in the squad, AndĂșjar provided valuable experience and support. While he didn't feature in any matches during the tournament, his role as a backup goalkeeper was crucial for maintaining team morale and providing cover in case of injury. After the World Cup, AndĂșjar continued to play professionally, showcasing his longevity and commitment to the sport. His career has been marked by consistency and professionalism, earning him respect among his peers. AndĂșjar's contributions extend beyond his on-field performances, as he serves as a mentor to younger players, sharing his knowledge and experience. His journey as a professional footballer exemplifies the dedication and perseverance required to succeed in the demanding world of sports. AndĂșjar's continued involvement in the game underscores his passion for football and his desire to contribute to its growth and development. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his unwavering commitment and sportsmanship.

  • AgustĂ­n Orion: Completing the goalkeeping trio, Orion brought further experience to the squad. Like AndĂșjar, he didn't see any game time in Brazil but remained an important part of the team dynamic. Orion's career post-2014 saw him continue to play professionally, demonstrating his enduring love for the game. His contributions to his respective clubs have been significant, both on and off the field. Orion's leadership qualities and experience make him a valuable asset to any team he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Orion's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his professionalism and commitment.

The Defenders

  • Pablo Zabaleta: The reliable right-back, Zabaleta was a workhorse for Argentina. His tireless energy and defensive solidity were crucial to the team's success. Post-2014, he continued to play at a high level for Manchester City before moving to West Ham United. Zabaleta's career has been marked by consistency and professionalism, earning him respect among fans and peers alike. His contributions to his teams have been significant, both on and off the field. Zabaleta's leadership qualities and experience make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Zabaleta's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his sportsmanship and commitment.

  • Federico FernĂĄndez: A solid center-back, FernĂĄndez provided stability and aerial prowess to the Argentine defense. After the World Cup, he continued his career in Europe, playing for various clubs in Italy and England. FernĂĄndez's contributions to his teams have been notable, particularly his defensive solidity and ability to read the game. His experience and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. FernĂĄndez's journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. FernĂĄndez remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his professionalism and commitment.

  • Ezequiel Garay: Garay formed a strong partnership with FernĂĄndez in the heart of the defense. His composure and tackling ability were vital in keeping opposition attackers at bay. Post-2014, Garay continued to play professionally, showcasing his defensive skills and experience. His contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his ability to organize and lead the defense. Garay's leadership qualities and experience make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Garay's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his professionalism and commitment.

  • Marcos Rojo: Rojo was a versatile defender who could play at left-back or center-back. His energy and commitment were always evident on the pitch. After the World Cup, Rojo continued to play for Manchester United, experiencing both highs and lows. Rojo's contributions to his teams have been notable, particularly his versatility and willingness to play in different positions. His experience and determination make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. Rojo's journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. Rojo remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his commitment and never-say-die attitude.

  • JosĂ© MarĂ­a Basanta: Basanta provided a reliable option in defense, offering experience and versatility. While he didn't feature prominently in the tournament, his presence was important for squad depth. Basanta's career post-2014 saw him continue to play professionally, showcasing his defensive skills and experience. His contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his reliability and versatility. Basanta's experience and professionalism make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Basanta's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his commitment and sportsmanship.

  • Hugo Campagnaro: Campagnaro brought a wealth of experience to the squad. Although he didn't play a major role in the tournament, his presence was valuable for leadership and guidance. Campagnaro's career post-2014 saw him continue to play professionally, showcasing his defensive skills and experience. His contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his leadership and ability to mentor younger players. Campagnaro's experience and professionalism make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Campagnaro's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his commitment and sportsmanship.

  • MartĂ­n Demichelis: An experienced center-back, Demichelis provided leadership and composure to the Argentine defense. After the World Cup, he continued to play for Manchester City before returning to Argentina to finish his career. Demichelis's contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his leadership and ability to organize the defense. His experience and professionalism make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. Demichelis's journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. Demichelis remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his commitment and sportsmanship.

The Midfielders

  • Javier Mascherano: The heart and soul of the Argentine midfield, Mascherano was the ultimate warrior. His tackling, interceptions, and leadership were instrumental in Argentina's run to the final. Post-2014, Mascherano continued to represent Argentina with distinction and played for Barcelona before moving to China. Mascherano's contributions to his teams have been immense, particularly his leadership and unwavering commitment. His experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. Mascherano's journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. Mascherano remains a revered figure in the footballing community, admired for his leadership, tenacity, and sportsmanship.

  • Ángel Di MarĂ­a: A dynamic winger with blistering pace and creative flair, Di MarĂ­a was a constant threat to opposition defenses. Despite missing the final through injury, his contributions throughout the tournament were invaluable. After the World Cup, Di MarĂ­a continued to play at a high level for various clubs, including Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain. Di MarĂ­a's contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his speed, dribbling skills, and ability to create scoring opportunities. His experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. Di MarĂ­a's journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. Di MarĂ­a remains a highly regarded figure in the footballing community, admired for his skill, creativity, and determination.

  • Lucas Biglia: Biglia provided a calm and composed presence in midfield. His passing range and tactical awareness were important for controlling the tempo of games. Post-2014, Biglia continued to play professionally, showcasing his midfield abilities and experience. His contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his passing accuracy and ability to dictate the flow of play. Biglia's experience and professionalism make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Biglia's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his composure and tactical intelligence.

  • Enzo PĂ©rez: PĂ©rez was a tireless midfielder who provided energy and work rate to the team. His versatility allowed him to play in various positions. Post-2014, PĂ©rez continued to play professionally, showcasing his versatility and commitment. His contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his work rate and ability to contribute in different areas of the field. PĂ©rez's experience and determination make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. PĂ©rez's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his versatility and work ethic.

  • Fernando Gago: Gago's career has been plagued by injuries, but his quality and vision were undeniable. He provided a creative spark in midfield when fit. After the World Cup, Gago continued to battle injuries but remained a respected figure in Argentine football. Gago's contributions to his teams have been notable, particularly his passing range and ability to unlock defenses. His experience and technical skill make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. Gago's journey as a professional footballer has been marked by both triumph and adversity. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his determination to overcome challenges. Gago remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his talent and resilience.

  • Maxi RodrĂ­guez: RodrĂ­guez was a veteran presence in the squad, bringing experience and a goal-scoring threat from midfield. While his role was limited, his presence was valuable. RodrĂ­guez's career post-2014 saw him continue to play professionally, showcasing his goal-scoring ability and experience. His contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his knack for scoring important goals. RodrĂ­guez's experience and leadership make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. RodrĂ­guez's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a revered figure in the footballing community, admired for his goal-scoring prowess and commitment.

The Forwards

  • Lionel Messi: Need we say more? The maestro, Messi, was the focal point of the Argentine attack. While he didn't win the World Cup, his performances were mesmerizing. Post-2014, Messi has continued to cement his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time, winning numerous individual awards and team trophies. Messi's contributions to his teams have been unparalleled, particularly his goal-scoring ability, dribbling skills, and playmaking vision. His impact on the sport is immeasurable, inspiring fans and players around the world. Messi's journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his dedication, talent, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to leave a lasting legacy. Messi remains an iconic figure in the footballing community, revered for his exceptional talent, humility, and sportsmanship.

  • Gonzalo HiguaĂ­n: HiguaĂ­n led the line for Argentina, providing a goal-scoring threat and linking up with Messi. While he missed some crucial chances in the final, his contributions throughout the tournament were important. After the World Cup, HiguaĂ­n continued to score goals for various clubs, including Napoli, Juventus, and Chelsea. HiguaĂ­n's contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his goal-scoring ability and work rate. His experience and clinical finishing make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. HiguaĂ­n's journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. HiguaĂ­n remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his goal-scoring prowess and professionalism.

  • Sergio AgĂŒero: AgĂŒero provided a different dimension to the Argentine attack with his pace, skill, and goal-scoring instincts. After the World Cup, AgĂŒero continued to be a prolific goal scorer for Manchester City, becoming the club's all-time leading scorer. AgĂŒero's contributions to his teams have been immense, particularly his goal-scoring ability and explosive pace. His experience and clinical finishing make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. AgĂŒero's journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a lasting impact. AgĂŒero remains a revered figure in the footballing community, admired for his goal-scoring prowess, skill, and unwavering commitment.

  • Rodrigo Palacio: Palacio provided a versatile option in attack, capable of playing in various positions. While his role was limited, his experience was valuable. Palacio's career post-2014 saw him continue to play professionally, showcasing his versatility and experience. His contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his work rate and ability to contribute in different areas of the field. Palacio's experience and professionalism make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Palacio's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a respected figure in the footballing community, admired for his versatility and commitment.

  • Ezequiel Lavezzi: Lavezzi was known for his tireless running and energetic performances. He provided a spark off the bench. After the World Cup, Lavezzi continued to play professionally, showcasing his energy and commitment. His contributions to his teams have been significant, particularly his work rate and ability to create scoring opportunities. Lavezzi's experience and enthusiasm make him a valuable asset to any squad he plays for. His journey as a professional footballer is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Lavezzi's continued involvement in the sport highlights his passion for football and his desire to make a positive impact. He remains a popular figure in the footballing community, admired for his energy, skill, and infectious personality.

So, there you have it! A glimpse into the careers of the Argentina squad from the 2014 World Cup. It's fascinating to see how these players have continued to evolve and contribute to the world of football. That World Cup run may not have ended in victory, but it undoubtedly left an indelible mark on their careers and the memories of football fans worldwide. What are your favorite memories of that team? Share them in the comments below!