Mateo Retegui, born on April 29, 1999, in Argentina, has established himself as a prominent forward in European football. Currently playing for Atalanta in Serie A, Retegui’s journey reflects his determination and adaptability. Although rooted in Argentina, he represents the Italy national team, embodying his strong Italian heritage. Known as 'il Re tigre' (“The Tiger King”), Retegui's fierce playing style and instinctual goal-scoring ability have won him fans across two continents. His capacity to merge the flair of South American football with the tactical discipline of Europe has been a key aspect of his career, making him one of modern football's most fascinating forwards.

Raised in an athletic family, Mateo was accustomed to competition from a young age. As the son of celebrated Argentine hockey player and coach Carlos Retegui, sporting talent was inherent. While his father and sister thrived in field hockey, Mateo discovered his passion for football. His journey from the neighborhoods of Argentina to the prestigious arenas of Serie A and the UEFA Champions League reflects the aspirations of countless young athletes striving to leave their mark on the world stage.

Key Career Achievements

Mateo Retegui's career took off in the lively football scene of Argentina. He began in the youth setup of River Plate and later transitioned to Boca Juniors, where he made his professional debut in 2018. While his early game time was restricted, his talent was undeniable. Loan periods at Estudiantes and Tigre enabled him to evolve into a formidable striker, with impressive displays in the Argentine Primera División highlighting his scoring ability. His remarkable total of 19 goals during the 2022 season with Tigre cemented his status as a forward to keep an eye on.

In 2023, Mateo Retegui made the significant step to Europe, transferring to Genoa for €15 million. He quickly made his mark by scoring two goals in his first Coppa Italia match. During the 2023–24 Serie A season, he netted seven league goals, showcasing his ability to adjust to the challenges of European football. In 2024, Atalanta acquired him for a record €28 million, highlighting his rising reputation. His standout performance, including a brace against Young Boys in the Champions League, was a crucial moment that confirmed his presence on the European stage.

Individual Awards of Mateo Retegui

Mateo Retegui, an Italian forward born in Argentina, has quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional player in European football. His individual accolades reflect his increasing impact in both national and international tournaments. Below is a list of notable honors that highlight his abilities and achievements:

Serie A Player of the Month (October 2024): In October 2024, Retegui was honored with the esteemed EA Sports FC Player of the Month award in Serie A. This accolade was the result of a series of outstanding performances that significantly contributed to his team's crucial victories. His precise finishing, remarkable off-the-ball movement, and consistent ability to perform under pressure were pivotal in achieving this recognition. The award reinforced his standing as one of Serie A's premier strikers and showcased his rapid adaptation to European football following his transition from Argentina.

Top Goal Scorer in Argentine Primera División (2021–2022): In the 2021-2022 season, Retegui achieved the title of top goal scorer in the Argentine Primera División. He netted an impressive total of goals, highlighting his precise finishing and deadly presence in front of the net. This accomplishment represented the pinnacle of his development in Argentina, establishing him as one of the nation's most exciting attacking prospects. His impressive performance in his home country attracted the interest of European clubs, ultimately leading to his transfer to Serie A and significantly enhancing his profile in international football.

The individual accolades received by Mateo Retegui not only underscore his remarkable technical skills but also emphasize his consistency, adaptability, and potential for success at the highest levels of football. His early achievements in both the Argentine league and Serie A have established him as a significant player for Italy's national team and a promising star in international competitions.

Statistics

The statistics of Retegui’s career reveal a narrative of steady development and remarkable achievement. Over the course of 217 professional matches, he has scored 70 goals, underscoring his dependability as a scorer. His most productive periods occurred during his tenure at Tigre, where he tallied 30 goals in 48 appearances, and in his current stint with Atalanta, where he has netted 12 goals in 17 Serie A matches during the 2024–25 season.

Club	Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Notable Achievements
Boca Juniors	2018–2019	1	0	0	Professional debut in 2018.
Estudiantes (loan)	2019–2020	29	5	3	Showcased potential with crucial goals.
Tigre (loan)	2022–2023	48	18	7	Became a standout performer in the Argentine league.
Genoa	2023–2024	34	12	5	Scored a brace on debut in the Coppa Italia.
Atalanta	2024–Present	15	7	4	Netted a Champions League brace against Young Boys.

Resilience & Recoveries

Retegui's journey has been marked by various challenges. Early in his career, he encountered difficulties in securing a consistent starting position at Boca Juniors, often overshadowed by more established players. Nevertheless, he seized the opportunity to go on loan to Estudiantes and Tigre, where he could refine his skills. His perseverance paid off, transforming him into one of Argentina's most promising forwards, ultimately leading to his transition to European football.

A major test of his resilience occurred in 2024, when Atalanta called upon Retegui after Gianluca Scamacca suffered an ACL injury. The burden of stepping in for such an important player could have felt immense, yet Retegui excelled in the situation. His two-goal performance in the Champions League against Young Boys not only silenced his critics but also solidified his standing as a player who performs best in high-stakes situations. This capacity to recover and excel under pressure has become a hallmark of his career.

Heritage

Even though he is still in the prime of his career, Retegui is already establishing his legacy. As one of the few athletes to transition effortlessly between South American and European football, he serves as a link between two distinct football cultures. His choice to represent Italy has introduced a unique facet to his career, making him a representation of the global nature of modern football.

Retegui's impact on Italy's national team is particularly significant. He has made his mark by scoring in his first two competitive appearances for the Azzurri and delivering crucial performances in key qualifiers and tournaments, securing his legacy in Italian football history. His capability to excel on the international stage has garnered him popularity among fans and has established him as an essential player for Italy's aspirations.

The Future Outlook

As Mateo Retegui's career continues to ascend, the outlook for his future is exceptionally bright. At Atalanta, he is set to emerge as one of the leading goal scorers in Serie A, with his current performance indicating that he may break personal and club records. In the Champions League, his ability to perform under pressure makes him an essential player for Atalanta’s ambitions on the European stage.

On the international stage, Retegui’s contribution to Italy’s UEFA Euro 2024 campaign and future tournaments will be crucial. His capability to collaborate with teammates and capitalize on scoring opportunities makes him an essential asset for the Azzurri. With a blend of talent, resolve, and charm, Mateo Retegui is not merely a contemporary star but a budding legend, poised to leave a lasting impression on the beautiful game.