Young Argentine star Prestianni is publicly crediting Portuguese club Benfica for allowing him to shine at the U-20 World Cup, a decision that contrasts with other top European teams withholding their promising talents.
Prestianni, an attacker, has been instrumental in Argentina’s path to the tournament final, earning Most Valuable Player honors in both the quarter-finals against Mexico and the semi-finals versus Colombia. He provided the sole assist in Argentina’s semi-final victory, securing their spot against Morocco.
Speaking to his national press, Prestianni affirmed his thanks. “The first thing I did was talk to Benfica to let me come to the World Cup,” he stated. “I publicly thank Benfica for letting me be here. We will try to win the World Cup and then return to Benfica to win everything.”
This gratitude highlights a notable difference in club policy. Players like Franco Mastantuono, who plays for Real Madrid, and Claudio Echeverri from Bayer Leverkusen, were reportedly not released by their respective European clubs to participate in the competition.
The U-20 World Cup is currently underway in Chile, with the final scheduled for next Sunday morning.
Prestianni expressed his personal satisfaction at being part of the tournament. He noted that he had previously missed out on competing in both the South American championships and the U-17 World Cup.
“Now I am playing and very happy,” the Benfica player added. He has also taken on a leadership role within the Argentina U-20 squad.