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

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 54 views

The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil was a rollercoaster of emotions for Argentina. La Albiceleste, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, captivated the world with their mesmerizing performances, ultimately reaching the final against Germany. While they narrowly missed out on lifting the trophy, the memories of that squad remain etched in the hearts of Argentinian fans. But what happened to those players who donned the famous blue and white stripes back then? Let's take a trip down memory lane and see where the stars of Argentina's 2014 World Cup squad are now.

The Goalkeepers

Sergio Romero: The undisputed number one for Argentina in 2014, Romero was a penalty shootout hero against the Netherlands in the semi-finals. After the World Cup, he continued his career at Manchester United, although opportunities were limited. He later moved to Venezia and then back to Argentina with Boca Juniors, where he currently plays, bringing his experience and leadership to the team. Romero remains a respected figure in Argentinian football, and his contributions to the 2014 World Cup campaign will never be forgotten. His shot-stopping abilities and calm presence between the posts were crucial to Argentina's success. He is still actively playing at a high level, proving his longevity and dedication to the sport. Romero’s journey from a young prospect to a seasoned veteran is a testament to his hard work and determination. He serves as an inspiration to aspiring goalkeepers in Argentina and around the world. His performances in crucial matches, especially the penalty shootout against the Netherlands, cemented his place in Argentinian football history. Romero's legacy extends beyond his goalkeeping skills; he is also known for his humility and professionalism, making him a role model for younger players.
Mariano Andújar: A reliable backup goalkeeper, Andújar provided valuable support from the bench. After the World Cup, he continued his career in Italy and Argentina. Although he didn't see much game time in Brazil, his presence in the squad was important for team morale and training. Andújar's experience and professionalism were valuable assets to the team. He has had a long and successful career, playing for various clubs in Argentina and Europe. He is known for his shot-stopping abilities and his command of the penalty area. Andújar's dedication to the sport is evident in his longevity and his commitment to his teams. He is a respected figure in Argentinian football and continues to contribute to the sport. His role as a backup goalkeeper in the 2014 World Cup squad highlights the importance of having experienced and reliable players in the team, even if they don't always get to play on the field. Andújar's career is a testament to the value of hard work, perseverance, and professionalism in football.
Agustín Orion: Another experienced goalkeeper, Orion was the third choice in the squad. He provided depth and leadership, even though he didn't play any matches. Orion's career has been marked by his strong presence in the penalty area and his ability to make crucial saves. He is a respected figure in Argentinian football and has played for some of the country's biggest clubs. Orion's inclusion in the 2014 World Cup squad reflects his experience and his ability to contribute to the team, even from the sidelines. His leadership and professionalism were valuable assets to the squad. Orion's career is a testament to the importance of having experienced players in a team, as they can provide valuable support and guidance to younger players. His dedication to the sport and his commitment to his teams have made him a respected figure in Argentinian football. Orion's journey is an example of how hard work and perseverance can lead to a successful career in football.

The Defenders

Pablo Zabaleta: A tireless right-back, Zabaleta was a key member of the Argentinian defense. After the World Cup, he continued playing for Manchester City and later moved to West Ham United. He is now retired from professional football but remains a beloved figure among fans for his dedication and hard work. Zabaleta's contributions to the Argentinian national team were immense, and he is remembered for his tenacity and commitment on the field. He was a reliable defender who always gave his all for his country. Zabaleta's career is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication in football. He is a role model for aspiring footballers in Argentina and around the world. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the best right-backs in Argentinian football history. Zabaleta's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his sportsmanship and his commitment to fair play.
Ezequiel Garay: A solid center-back, Garay formed a strong partnership with Federico Fernández in the heart of the Argentinian defense. After the World Cup, he played for Zenit Saint Petersburg and Valencia. He retired from professional football in 2021 due to injury issues. Garay's presence in the Argentinian defense was crucial, and he was known for his aerial ability and his tackling skills. He was a reliable defender who always gave his all for his country. Garay's career is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication in football. He is a role model for aspiring footballers in Argentina and around the world. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the best center-backs in Argentinian football history. Garay's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his sportsmanship and his commitment to fair play.
Federico Fernández: Another key member of the defense, Fernández played alongside Garay and provided stability and composure. After the World Cup, he played for Swansea City, Newcastle United, and Elche. He continues to play, bringing his experience to his current team. Fernández's contributions to the Argentinian national team have been significant, and he is known for his aerial ability and his tackling skills. He is a reliable defender who always gives his all for his country. Fernández's career is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication in football. He is a role model for aspiring footballers in Argentina and around the world. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the best center-backs in Argentinian football history. Fernández's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his sportsmanship and his commitment to fair play.
Marcos Rojo: A versatile defender who could play at left-back or center-back, Rojo was known for his aggressive style of play. After the World Cup, he moved to Manchester United, where he had a mixed spell. He later returned to Argentina and currently plays for Boca Juniors. Rojo's passion and commitment on the field made him a fan favorite. He is known for his tough tackling and his willingness to put his body on the line for his team. Rojo's career has been marked by his versatility and his ability to play in multiple positions. He is a valuable asset to any team he plays for. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the most passionate players in the squad. Rojo's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his dedication to his family and his community.
José María Basanta: A reliable defender, Basanta provided cover and experience to the squad. After the World Cup, he continued his career in Mexico. While he wasn't a regular starter, his presence in the squad was important for depth and experience. Basanta's career has been marked by his consistency and his ability to play at a high level for many years. He is a respected figure in Argentinian football and has played for some of the country's biggest clubs. Basanta's inclusion in the 2014 World Cup squad reflects his experience and his ability to contribute to the team, even from the sidelines. His leadership and professionalism were valuable assets to the squad. Basanta's career is a testament to the importance of having experienced players in a team, as they can provide valuable support and guidance to younger players. His dedication to the sport and his commitment to his teams have made him a respected figure in Argentinian football. Basanta's journey is an example of how hard work and perseverance can lead to a successful career in football.
Hugo Campagnaro: An experienced defender, Campagnaro provided leadership and versatility. After the World Cup, he continued his career in Italy. Although he didn't play much in Brazil, his presence in the squad was valuable for his experience and tactical understanding. Campagnaro's career has been marked by his versatility and his ability to play in multiple positions. He is a respected figure in Argentinian football and has played for some of the country's biggest clubs. Campagnaro's inclusion in the 2014 World Cup squad reflects his experience and his ability to contribute to the team, even from the sidelines. His leadership and professionalism were valuable assets to the squad. Campagnaro's career is a testament to the importance of having experienced players in a team, as they can provide valuable support and guidance to younger players. His dedication to the sport and his commitment to his teams have made him a respected figure in Argentinian football. Campagnaro's journey is an example of how hard work and perseverance can lead to a successful career in football.
Martín Demichelis: An experienced center-back, Demichelis provided leadership and stability to the Argentinian defense. After the World Cup, he played for Manchester City and Espanyol. He is now retired from professional football. Demichelis's career has been marked by his longevity and his ability to play at a high level for many years. He is a respected figure in Argentinian football and has played for some of the country's biggest clubs. Demichelis's inclusion in the 2014 World Cup squad reflects his experience and his ability to contribute to the team, even from the sidelines. His leadership and professionalism were valuable assets to the squad. Demichelis's career is a testament to the importance of having experienced players in a team, as they can provide valuable support and guidance to younger players. His dedication to the sport and his commitment to his teams have made him a respected figure in Argentinian football. Demichelis's journey is an example of how hard work and perseverance can lead to a successful career in football.

The Midfielders

Javier Mascherano: A warrior in midfield, Mascherano was the heart and soul of the Argentinian team. After the World Cup, he played for Barcelona, Hebei China Fortune, and Estudiantes. He is now retired from professional football and has moved into coaching. Mascherano's leadership and determination on the field made him a legend in Argentinian football. He is remembered for his incredible work rate and his ability to inspire his teammates. Mascherano's career is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication in football. He is a role model for aspiring footballers in Argentina and around the world. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the greatest midfielders in Argentinian football history. Mascherano's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his intelligence and his tactical understanding of the game.
Fernando Gago: A technically gifted midfielder, Gago's career was plagued by injuries. After the World Cup, he continued playing for Boca Juniors. He is now retired from professional football. Gago's talent and vision on the field were undeniable, and he was considered one of the most promising midfielders of his generation. However, injuries prevented him from reaching his full potential. Gago's career is a reminder of the challenges that footballers face and the importance of resilience and determination. He is still remembered as a talented player who could have achieved even more if not for his injuries. Gago's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his intelligence and his understanding of the game.
Lucas Biglia: A reliable midfielder, Biglia provided stability and composure to the Argentinian team. After the World Cup, he played for Lazio, AC Milan, and Fatih Karagümrük. He is now retired from professional football. Biglia's consistency and his ability to read the game made him a valuable asset to any team he played for. He was a reliable midfielder who always gave his all for his country. Biglia's career is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication in football. He is a role model for aspiring footballers in Argentina and around the world. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the most reliable midfielders in Argentinian football history. Biglia's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his sportsmanship and his commitment to fair play.
Ángel Di María: A dynamic winger, Di María was a constant threat to opposing defenses. After the World Cup, he played for Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus. He is currently playing for Benfica. Di María's speed, skill, and creativity made him one of the most exciting players in the world. He is known for his ability to score spectacular goals and his willingness to run at defenders. Di María's career has been marked by his success at various clubs and his contributions to the Argentinian national team. He is a valuable asset to any team he plays for. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the most talented players in the squad. Di María's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his dedication to his family and his community.
Enzo Pérez: A versatile midfielder, Pérez provided energy and tenacity to the Argentinian team. After the World Cup, he played for Valencia and River Plate. He continues to play for Estudiantes. Pérez's work rate and his ability to play in multiple positions made him a valuable asset to any team he played for. He is a reliable midfielder who always gave his all for his country. Pérez's career is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication in football. He is a role model for aspiring footballers in Argentina and around the world. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the most versatile players in the squad. Pérez's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his sportsmanship and his commitment to fair play.
Ricardo Álvarez: An attacking midfielder, Álvarez provided creativity and flair to the Argentinian team. After the World Cup, he played for Sunderland, Sampdoria, and Vélez Sarsfield. He is now retired from professional football. Álvarez's talent and vision on the field were undeniable, and he was considered one of the most promising midfielders of his generation. However, he struggled to reach his full potential due to injuries and inconsistent performances. Álvarez's career is a reminder of the challenges that footballers face and the importance of resilience and determination. He is still remembered as a talented player who could have achieved even more if not for his setbacks. Álvarez's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his intelligence and his understanding of the game.
Maxi Rodríguez: An experienced midfielder, Rodríguez provided leadership and creativity to the Argentinian team. After the World Cup, he continued playing for Newell's Old Boys. He is now retired from professional football. Rodríguez's career has been marked by his longevity and his ability to score crucial goals. He is a respected figure in Argentinian football and has played for some of the country's biggest clubs. Rodríguez's inclusion in the 2014 World Cup squad reflects his experience and his ability to contribute to the team, even from the sidelines. His leadership and professionalism were valuable assets to the squad. Rodríguez's career is a testament to the importance of having experienced players in a team, as they can provide valuable support and guidance to younger players. His dedication to the sport and his commitment to his teams have made him a respected figure in Argentinian football. Rodríguez's journey is an example of how hard work and perseverance can lead to a successful career in football.

The Forwards

Lionel Messi: The captain and talisman of the Argentinian team, Messi was the star of the show. After the World Cup, he continued his legendary career at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. He currently plays for Inter Miami. Messi's achievements and accolades are too numerous to list. He is widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were mesmerizing, and he led Argentina to the final with his incredible talent and determination. Messi's legacy extends far beyond his playing career; he is a global icon and an inspiration to millions of people around the world.
Gonzalo Higuaín: A prolific striker, Higuaín led the line for Argentina. After the World Cup, he played for Napoli, Juventus, AC Milan, Chelsea, and Inter Miami. He is now retired from professional football. Higuaín's goal-scoring record speaks for itself. He is one of the most prolific strikers of his generation. His performances for Argentina were crucial to their success in the 2014 World Cup, and he is remembered as a key member of the squad. Higuaín's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his dedication to his family and his community.
Sergio Agüero: Another world-class striker, Agüero provided firepower off the bench. After the World Cup, he continued his successful career at Manchester City and later moved to Barcelona. He was forced to retire due to a heart condition. Agüero's goal-scoring record is legendary. He is one of the most prolific strikers in Premier League history. His performances for Argentina were crucial to their success in the 2014 World Cup, and he is remembered as a key member of the squad. Agüero's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his humor and his positive attitude.
Ezequiel Lavezzi: A dynamic winger, Lavezzi provided energy and creativity to the Argentinian attack. After the World Cup, he played for Paris Saint-Germain and Hebei China Fortune. He is now retired from professional football. Lavezzi's speed, skill, and work rate made him a valuable asset to any team he played for. He is known for his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates and his willingness to run at defenders. Lavezzi's career has been marked by his success at various clubs and his contributions to the Argentinian national team. He is a valuable asset to any team he plays for. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the most exciting players in the squad. Lavezzi's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his humor and his positive attitude.
Rodrigo Palacio: A versatile forward, Palacio provided experience and tactical flexibility. After the World Cup, he continued his career at Inter Milan and Bologna. He currently plays for Brescia. Palacio's versatility and his ability to play in multiple positions made him a valuable asset to any team he played for. He is a reliable forward who always gave his all for his country. Palacio's career is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication in football. He is a role model for aspiring footballers in Argentina and around the world. His performances in the 2014 World Cup were crucial to Argentina's success, and he is remembered as one of the most versatile players in the squad. Palacio's legacy extends beyond his playing career; he is also known for his sportsmanship and his commitment to fair play.

The 2014 Argentinian World Cup squad was a talented and dedicated group of players who came agonizingly close to achieving their dream of lifting the trophy. While they ultimately fell short, their performances captivated the world and their legacy lives on in the hearts of Argentinian fans. Many of these players have continued their careers at the highest level, while others have moved into coaching or other ventures. Regardless of where they are now, they will always be remembered for their contributions to Argentinian football and their unforgettable run to the 2014 World Cup final. Their story is a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and the pursuit of a common goal.