Why Argentina’s World Cup win could be bad news for Man Utd, Man City and Tottenham when it comes to club versus country

ARGENTINA won the World Cup for the first time since 1986 in the most dramatic final.

And Premier League fans will no doubt be delighted to see the likes of Lisandro Martinez, Cristian Romero and Alexis Mac Allister.

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But the result of the thrilling final in Doha – decided on penalties after a 3-3 draw – may well have sparked a massive dispute between club and country as the season prepares to restart.

With the Premier League returning on Boxing Day, players are, in theory, expected back in time to train and prepare for games.

However, Argentina’s stars will fly back to the UK via a massive diversion to Buenos Aires for the mother of all celebrations.

This could affect Manchester United (Martinez), Brighton (Mac Allister), Tottenham (Romero), Aston Villa (Emi Martinez) and Manchester City (Julian Alvarez).

One player who could benefit from a dispute with Argentina is United’s Harry Maguire.

The centre-back looked back on his old self with appearances in England at the World Cup before the Three Lions were ditched by the French.

And if Lisandro Martinez is unable to play on Boxing Day, Ten Hag will have no choice but to call up club captain Maguire.

The likelihood of being without key men was something the top Prem bosses were aware of prior to the tournament.

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Chelsea manager Graham Potter said last month: “I don’t know what other people’s motivation will be after a World Cup.

“Most winners celebrate in open buses – and then take a three-week holiday to get over the celebrations.

“I could be selfish and say we need her back.

“But if they don’t go and celebrate and have to come back here, it becomes difficult. You need to recover emotionally.

“And if you lost the World Cup final, it takes more than three or four days to get over it.”

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