Aston Villa midfielder Emiliano Buendía has received strong backing for a late Argentina World Cup call-up after former international Diego Latorre described his recent form as "extraordinary".
Buendía was one of the most notable omissions from Lionel Scaloni's final 26-man squad despite playing a key role in Aston Villa's Europa League triumph and enjoying an impressive finish to the season following his recovery from a serious ACL injury.
Recent reports in Argentina suggested the Villa playmaker had been asked to remain available in case injuries forced late alterations to the squad. Now, a respected voice in Argentine football has publicly argued that he should already be on the plane.
Latorre makes clear Buendía stance
Speaking on ESPN Argentina, Latorre discussed potential changes that could be required before Argentina's World Cup campaign gets underway.
While addressing possible replacements, the former Argentina midfielder highlighted Buendía as the player he believes deserves an opportunity.
“I think if there is one player Scaloni may still be thinking about, this is the perfect opportunity. If he still has doubts about Buendía or Perrone…” he said.
Latorre then expanded on why he believes the Aston Villa man has earned consideration.
“Buendía’s season was extraordinary, extraordinary.
“It’s true there is a lot of competition in that area and there are already established starters. But even Buendía’s final stretch at Aston Villa was extraordinary. Really extraordinary.”
Aston Villa form strengthens his case
Buendía's resurgence has been one of Aston Villa's success stories this season.
After spending much of the previous campaign recovering from a serious knee injury, the 29-year-old re-established himself as an important figure under Unai Emery and helped Villa secure European silverware.
His performances in the latter stages of the Europa League campaign attracted significant praise, and Latorre believes they should have carried greater weight when Argentina's squad was selected.
When asked directly whether Buendía should be called up if an opportunity arises, the former midfielder left little room for interpretation.
“I have no doubt. For me, Buendía should come in.”
Competition remains fierce in Argentina squad
Scaloni's options in attacking midfield remain one of Argentina's strongest areas.
Players such as Thiago Almada and Nicolás Paz are already competing for places behind the forward line, making it difficult for late challengers to force their way into the squad.
Even so, Latorre believes Buendía offers qualities that should not be overlooked.
“He’s a very complete midfielder. He scores goals, he has a lot of goals in him and a very good shot from distance.”
The former Argentina international also acknowledged the competition for places but insisted his view had not changed.
“They can tell you all that. But I’ve followed Buendía closely throughout the season. For me, he’s a player who has to be there and should have been among the 26.”
What's next?
For now, Buendía remains on standby rather than in the squad itself. However, reports that he has been asked to delay his holiday plans suggest Argentina are keeping the Aston Villa midfielder firmly in their thoughts.
Much will depend on whether Scaloni needs to make any late alterations before the tournament progresses. If that situation arises, Buendía's outstanding finish to the season could yet earn him an unexpected route into Argentina's World Cup campaign.
Should Emiliano Buendía have been included in Argentina's original 26-man squad after his performances for Aston Villa this season?
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