Roma's Brightest Star Faces a World Cup Dable: Italy or Argentina for Matías Suli?

A Dual Heritage and World Cup Dream

Roma midfielder Matías Suli, the young Argentine talent, sits at a crossroads over his international future as he holds both Argentine and Italian citizenship. He could represent either country, having not yet played for Argentina's senior team and having only appeared for youth national sides.

His rise has put his dual eligibility under the spotlight: there is a legal path to Italy’s squad, should Argentina’s position not shift. For now, the decision remains unsettled, but Suli clearly has a legitimate shot at wearing Italy’s jersey.

In 2024, Suli was called into the Argentine squad and sat on the bench against Chile in World Cup qualifiers, yet he has not earned an official senior cap for the world champions.

The attacker, who primarily operates as an attacking midfielder and right winger, has been with Roma since the start of last season after leaving Juventus.

In the current season, Suli has featured in eight matches across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing two assists.

The Roma Breakthrough and the Argentina Question

Born in Mar del Plata in 2003, Suli began his journey at the Felice Sarsfield academy before moving to Italy at a young age. His pace, close control, and left-footed finishing have drawn attention from fans and scouts alike.

Juventus scouts helped him rise through the youth ranks, and he soon emerged as one of the club’s most promising prospects before moving to Roma.

The real breakthrough

His move to Roma proved transformative, offering a nurturing environment where he could flourish under coach Claudio Ranieri, who trusted him and gave him space to express himself on the pitch.

Suli is renowned for his dribbling, speed, and set-piece finishing, making him one of Roma’s premier attacking weapons this season.

He often plays as a right winger, relying on his left foot to cut inside and shoot, a style that has drawn comparisons to Ángel Di María.

His ability to roam between lines and create chances has made him a complete midfielder, contributing not only goals but also assists and build-up play.

Numbers and achievements

Since arriving at Roma, Suli has contributed to several decisive goals, becoming one of the most influential players in Serie A this season. The Italian press has dubbed him “Roma's new jewel,” with growing talk of a potential call-up to the Argentina senior team soon again.

At just 22, his future looks incredibly bright, and with consistency and confidence, he could emerge as one of Italy’s rising stars in the coming years, potentially paving the way for a move to Europe’s elite clubs.

Roma's season so far

Roma began the campaign strongly; after six league games, they had five wins and one defeat, sitting top of the table with 15 points, level with Napoli.

Among the standout results was a 2-1 comeback win over Fiorentina, with Suli and Cristante sparking the turnaround, and a distant but memorable away derby win over Lazio in the league—the first time since 2016 that Roma claimed a derby win away from home.

Since then, Roma have recorded four draws and four defeats.

In a clash against Hellas Verona, Roma won 2-0, showing the team's defensive resilience and balanced attacking approach.

Challenges and the downside

On the European front, Roma faced a setback against Lille in the Europa League, where Suli failed to convert a late penalty and the team fell 1-0.

Injuries and physical fatigue loom as major challenges, especially up front, where absences have affected the winger and the attack.

There's also concern about consistency: can the squad maintain this high level through a packed schedule, and does it have enough depth to withstand the strain?

Two light punchlines to close with a smile: 1) If Suli keeps this form, expect a passport stamp at every international break—call it a tour de force. 2) Roma’s left foot is now so sharp it cuts through defenses and draft laws alike—watch out, world!