Alan Varela returns to Porto without playing for Argentina and sparks debate about call-ups to the national team

Alan Varela, Porto’s 24-year-old midfielder, is back in Portugal after international duty with the Argentina national team but without playing a single minute. According to OneFootball, the player trained and traveled with the squad in Buenos Aires but was not used in either of the World Cup Qualifiers.

Travel Fatigue Without Minutes Played

The situation leaves Varela returning to his club with only travel fatigue, without the benefits of added match fitness or international visibility. For Porto, this creates both relief and concern: the player is available again but may show signs of wear from the long trip.

Porto Could Benefit From His Return

Despite the lack of action with Argentina, Porto gains back a midfielder who may be crucial in the upcoming matches. With injuries and the need for rotation in the squad, Varela’s presence ensures Hansi Flick has more options in the midfield.

Symbolic Call-Ups Raise Questions

Varela’s case reignites an old debate in world football: the practice of calling up players without giving them minutes. While being part of the national team setup is an honor, the constant traveling without game time can negatively affect confidence and performance once the players return to their clubs.

This is not an isolated situation. Several Argentine internationals and players from other major national teams have faced similar issues, returning to their clubs more tired than when they left.

Balancing National Duty and Club Responsibility

For Varela, the challenge now is to quickly adapt back into Porto’s rhythm and prove his value on the pitch. His case also highlights the delicate balance national team coaches must find: honoring talent with call-ups while ensuring clubs don’t lose players to unnecessary fatigue.