In fact, the Villarreal star, who came through the youth system at Argentinos Juniors and drew universal acclaim at Boca Juniors, was only the fourth or fifth-choice player in the coveted schemer’s role until as recently as last year. Now, by contrast, Pekerman has installed him as the player around whom Argentina’s FIFA World Cup™ bid will be built, and looks sure to be one of the players to watch at Germany 2006.
Riquelme has always stood out due to his intelligence, outstanding ability to keep hold of the ball and fearsome shot. He first exploded on to the international scene in 1997 when, alongside the likes of Pablo Aimar and Esteban Cambiasso, he won the CONMEBOL South American U-20 tournament and the FIFA World Youth Championship in Malaysia. So exceptional was his form in both tournaments and for his then club side, Boca Juniors, that Passarella drafted him directly into the senior squad, where he made his debut in a 1-1 draw with Colombia in what was Argentina’s final qualifier for the 1998 FIFA World Cup.
However, his speedy inclusion into the senior set-up proved to be a false dawn when he failed to establish himself in the team. His best opportunity to prove his worth came at the CONMEBOL Copa America in 1999, but Bielsa's team flattered to deceive and were eliminated in the second round. He would be given another chance in a series of friendly matches ahead of Korea\/Japan 2002, but Bielsa was not to be swayed.
With Pekerman's arrival, however, came a remarkable reversal in fortunes. The coach knows Riquelme's ability perhaps better than anyone else and has rewarded him with a starting berth and his full confidence. The results have been there for all to see: Riquelme is now the focal point of the team, has scored goals and received rave reviews from the Argentine press for pivotal role he played in helping Argentina to the Final of the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup.
As far as his club career is concerned, this shy young man made his first division debut for Boca Juniors on 10 November 1996. Just 16 days later he notched his first goal and was hailed as Argentine football's rising star. He went on to claim a host of silverware including the CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores (twice) and the TOYOTA Cup after beating the mighty Real Madrid 2-0 in Tokyo. Barcelona won the subsequent race for his signature, but he struggled to establish himself at the Nou Camp and was loaned out to Villarreal.
Last season, he moved on a permanent basis to this high-flying provincial club, penning a four-year contract. In a 'Yellow Submarine' side sprinkled with skilful South Americans, Riquelme is the inspirational star, scoring freely and creating chances aplenty for his appreciative team-mates.
<\/P>","2278C81F60D7F1EC75F92E0677FAB34E":"","e_index":5};