Banfield’s Gerónimo Rivera could choose Chile over Argentina if not called up by Scaloni

While Argentina enjoys the calm of already qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, a rising local talent is starting to make headlines — and not just for his performances. Gerónimo Rivera, a 21-year-old forward from Banfield, hinted at the possibility of representing Chile if he doesn’t get a call from Argentina.

“I have Chilean family, but no one from the national team has ever contacted me. I’m Argentine, but if I ever get called, I could consider the offer,” Rivera told DSports. The remark raised eyebrows, especially at a time when national teams are increasingly racing to lock in dual-nationality prospects.
Rivera made his debut for Banfield on June 3, 2023, in a 2–0 loss to Racing. Since then, he has become one of the club’s most promising players, appearing in 67 matches and scoring 8 goals. Known for his versatility as a winger, Rivera has shown enough potential to draw attention both locally and abroad.

Although not yet on Lionel Scaloni’s radar, his situation is not unique. Several Argentine players in the past — such as Gonzalo Higuaín and Mauro Camoranesi — have had to choose between national teams.
Argentina will face Chile (June 5) and Colombia (June 10) in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers. With qualification already secured, Scaloni might take the chance to expand his squad beyond the current 28-man list — a window of opportunity Rivera hopes to break into.

On the club front, Rivera’s name has popped up in transfer rumors following the Apertura 2025, where Banfield finished 14th in Group A. The forward, however, remains focused: “There are a lot of rumors, but I’m fully committed to Banfield,” he said.

With Chilean heritage and Argentine roots, Rivera’s future could soon become a matter of national interest. The ball, now, is in Scaloni’s court.