Inter Miami’s teenage star Benja Cremaschi is now leaning towards representing the USMNT over Argentina after holding talks with La Albiceleste.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Speaking to Argentine radio station Urbana Play 104.3 FM, the Herons teenager revealed that he has spoken with Javier Mascherano regarding his dual-eligibility for both the U.S. and Argentina.
The La Albiceleste Olympic squad coach was apparently candid and honest with the teenager, and now, Cremaschi is leaning toward committing to the United States for his international eligibility.
The 19-year-old scored his first goal of the MLS season on Saturday, netting a cheeky finish late in the match against the New England Revolution in a 4-1 victory for Inter Miami.
He made his international debut in a friendly against Oman for the USMNT last September, and then featured in Mitrovic’s October and November camps with the U.S. Olympic squad. However, after missing out on the March camp due to injury, time is not on his side, as the U.S. will only take 18 players to France for the Olympics.
WHAT CREMASCHI SAID
“I haven’t spoken to Scaloni, I spoke with [Mascherano],” Cremaschi said. “The truth is he was very honest with me. He said he wants the best for me. It wasn’t an egotistical conversation and I’m very thankful for it.”
On if he would consider a call-up to the Argentina squad, Cremaschi replied: “Yes, but [Mascherano] had things clear. He told it to me in the best way and I understood him perfectly, so I’m leaning toward the United States.”
With Cremaschi out of consideration for an Olympic roster spot with La Albiceleste, the teenager hopes to see a phone call from U.S. boss Marko Mitrovic. “I hope it’s my turn to go.”
The Herons clash with the New York Red Bulls on Saturday in a battle between two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference. Miami will be searching for their fourth-straight win in MLS action.
