Juan Roman Riquelme profile
Argentina coach Jose Pekerman knows that the form of Juan Roman Riquelme will prove crucial if Argentina are to justify their billing as one of the tournament favourites.
Los Albicelestes' formation will be geared towards providing a platform for the Villarreal playmaker's talents who, with a unique array of passing and rapier-like shooting ability from dead-ball situations, has the ability to unlock the world's best defences.
"Riquelme is a rebel and there are not enough rebels like him around. He's one of those different players, who appear at key moments and stand out."
Jose Pekerman
The likes of Esteban Cambiasso and Juan Pablo Sorin will be charged with the task of providing as much ball as possible to the expressive Riquelme.
Pekerman's intentions contrast sharply with his predecessors Daniel Passarella and Marcelo Bielsa who were neither able nor willing, perhaps, to accommodate the player in such a prominent position.
Born in Buenos Aires, Riquelme started his career at boyhood favourites Boca Juniors where he made his debut in November 1996 before making his maiden appearance for Argentina in their 1-1 draw with Colombia on the eve of the 1998 World Cup finals.
He then joined Barcelona for a fee of ‚é¼9 million in 2002 but, after a season of struggle at Camp Nou, was allowed to join Villarreal on loan.
Inexplicably he was deemed surplus to the long-term requirements of Barca - although if any side can afford to be profligate with such talent then surely it is the Catalans - and Villarreal bought up 75 percent of the player's rights for a bargain ‚é¼5 million.
Sublime technique produced 15 goals and 11 assists for the El Madrigal outfit in season 2004-05 and also a nomination for Fifa World Player of the Year.
The focal point of The Yellow Submarines' UEFA Champions League charge this season Riquelme has showcased his ability in Europe's premier club competition during a run which accounted for the likes of Manchester United and Internazionale.
In creative league with Barca starlet Lionel Messi, Argentina expects Riquelme to be its difference maker.
