Argentina call up 21-year-old ex-street vendor in latest squad as River Plate ace targets 2026 World Cup

Argentina’s latest national team squad has turned heads, not just for its tactical mix, but for the emotional story behind Rivero.

The 21-year-old centre-back, once a street vendor selling alfajores, a traditional South American cookies, to support his family, now stands on the brink of an international debut. Born and raised in Moreno, a suburb of Buenos Aires, Rivero grew up in a modest home alongside five siblings. His footballing dream began on the dusty pitches of local club Los Halcones, just blocks away from his home.

Football became his escape and his purpose. “We are very humble and hardworking. My biggest wish is to see my family doing well,” Rivero said in an interview with River Plate in 2022. “Thanks to them, I’m here, fighting every day.”

At just 14, Rivero’s potential was spotted by River Plate scouts, who brought him into their academy, a turning point that changed his life. Originally a left midfielder, his natural left foot prompted a move to centre-back position, where he quickly became a leader, even captaining several youth sides. By 2021, he earned promotion to the reserve team and, two years later, signed his first professional contract with River Plate.

In 2024, his consistency and composure caught the eye of former first-team boss Martin Demichelis, who included him in River’s Copa Libertadores squad. Yet, breaking into a star-studded lineup proved challenging. Seeking regular minutes, Rivero was loaned out to Central Cordoba, where he thrived. His standout moment came in a historic 2-1 victory over Flamengo at the Maracanã, where he dominated defensively, a performance that brought him under the league's spotlight.

Rivero’s rise didn’t stop there. In just one season with Central Cordoba, he made 30 appearances, scored two goals, and provided one assist, playing every minute of their Copa Libertadores campaign. His calm under pressure and sharp positional sense made him one of the most promising defenders in Argentina.

Recognising his growth, River Plate activated their buy-back clause this summer, bringing him back for the upcoming Club World Cup. His performances also drew the attention of Argentina coach Scaloni, who has now handed Rivero his first senior call-up for the upcoming friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico on October 10 and October 13 respectively.

Still only 21, his rapid rise has positioned him as one of the brightest young defenders in South America. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Rivero is determined to cement his place in Scaloni’s evolving squad. River Plate fans are equally excited, viewing him as part of the club’s new generation of homegrown leaders.