Riquelme does not expect Argentina return
Boca Juniors midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme, a key member of Argentina’s 2006 World Cup team, has consistently been overlooked for the 2010 team by coach Diego Maradona—and he doesn’t expect that to change.
Riquelme told reporters Monday he expected to be on vacation in June when Argentina begins play in the World Cup in South Africa.
A skilled playmaker, Riquelme retired from international football in March 2009, saying he and Maradona did not get along. Maradona had criticized Riquelme’s play and overlooked the midfielder for several friendlies after he was named coach in November 2008.
Riquelme is praised for his precise passing, but has also been criticized for his laid-back style and absence of leadership skills.