Emi Buendia’s omission from Argentina’s World Cup squad has sparked major debate after the Aston Villa star enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career under Unai Emery.
The attacking midfielder played a huge role in Villa’s remarkable campaign, helping the club secure Champions League qualification while also lifting the Europa League trophy. Buendia capped the season in style with a stunning goal in the final against Freiburg, leading many supporters to believe he had done enough to earn an Argentina call-up.
Instead, Lionel Scaloni surprisingly left the 29-year-old out of his World Cup squad, a decision that has left Aston Villa fans stunned.
Buendia registered six goals and two assists in the Premier League despite only starting 21 matches, while his overall creativity and influence became crucial to Emery’s attacking system throughout the campaign.
Former Villa scout Bryan King believes there could be more behind the decision than simply footballing reasons.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, King admitted the situation felt “very strange” and suggested a possible personal issue may explain Buendia’s absence from the squad.
“It can’t really be based on performances because he’s been playing very well,” King said. “There feels like there’s something more going on here.”
Argentina selected eight attacking players for the tournament, including Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez, but comparisons with some of the remaining picks have only increased frustration among Villa supporters.
Buendia’s output this season comfortably exceeded that of Thiago Almada, Giuliano Simeone and Nicolas Gonzalez, all of whom were selected ahead of him.
Considering his form, consistency and contributions during Villa’s trophy-winning season, many believe Buendia has every right to feel unlucky after missing out on football’s biggest stage.
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