Gonzalo Montiel: The Right-Back Who Sealed Argentina's World Cup Glory
In the high-stakes world of international football, few moments are as iconic as the final penalty of a World Cup final. For Gonzalo Ariel Montiel, that moment defined a career. A tenacious and technically gifted right-back, Montiel has evolved from a promising academy product in Buenos Aires to a global champion, playing pivotal roles for both the Argentina national team and top-tier clubs across South America and Europe.
Born on January 1, 1997, in González Catán, Buenos Aires, Montiel's journey is one of resilience and precision. Whether defending the flank or stepping up to the penalty spot, he has consistently delivered under pressure on the world's biggest stages.
Key Facts
- World Cup Hero: Scored the winning penalty in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final against France.
- Continental Success: Winner of the Copa América in both 2021 and 2024.
- Club Pedigree: Won the Copa Libertadores (2018) and Argentine Primera División (2021) with River Plate.
- European Experience: Secured a UEFA Europa League title with Sevilla in 2023.
- Career Path: Has played in the Argentine Primera División, Spanish La Liga, and English Premier League.
Early Career and Rise at River Plate
Montiel is a product of the prestigious Club Atlético River Plate academy. He made his professional debut on April 30, 2016, appearing as a substitute in a match against Vélez Sarsfield. Under the guidance of manager Marcelo Gallardo, Montiel quickly integrated into the first team, showcasing his ability to balance defensive duties with offensive contributions.
During his first stint with River Plate (2016–2021), he became a cornerstone of the defense. He was instrumental in the club's 2018 Copa Libertadores triumph, where they defeated rivals Boca Juniors at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. His tenure was marked by multiple trophies, including the Copa Argentina and the Supercopa Argentina, culminating in a league title in 2021.
European Venture: Sevilla and Nottingham Forest
In August 2021, Montiel transitioned to European football, signing with Sevilla FC for €11 million. Joining the Spanish side to compete for the right-back position, he made an immediate impact, scoring on his La Liga debut against Valencia CF. His time in Spain was highlighted by his composure in penalty shootouts, most notably scoring the winning penalty in the 2023 Europa League final against Roma.
Seeking a new challenge, Montiel joined Premier League side Nottingham Forest on a season-long loan for the 2023–24 campaign. He became the third Argentine player in the history of the English club. After completing his loan spell, he briefly returned to Sevilla before making a sentimental and strategic return to his roots.
The Homecoming to River Plate
In January 2025, Montiel returned to River Plate for a transfer fee of $4.5 million, with performance-based add-ons of up to $500,000. His return marked a new chapter in his career, signing a contract that extends until December 2028. Since returning, he has continued to be a prolific presence on the pitch, contributing significantly to the team's domestic campaigns in 2025 and 2026.
International Glory with Argentina
Montiel's international career began in 2019 under manager Lionel Scaloni. He quickly became a trusted part of the Albiceleste (the nickname for the Argentina national team), contributing to a golden era of Argentine football.
He was part of the squad that won the 2021 Copa América, where he showed immense grit by playing through an ankle injury in the final. However, his most famous contribution came during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. After a grueling final against France that ended 3-3, Montiel stepped up in the penalty shootout to score the decisive goal, securing the trophy for Argentina.
Montiel continued his success by winning the 2024 Copa América and was subsequently selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
Career Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Right-back |
| Current Club | River Plate |
| Major Club Honours | Copa Libertadores, Argentine Primera División, UEFA Europa League |
| Major International Honours | FIFA World Cup (2022), Copa América (2021, 2024) |
| Total Club Appearances | 299 |
| Total International Caps | 45 |
Legal Clarification
In 2023, Montiel faced allegations of sexual abuse regarding an incident from 2019. Following a legal process that included psychiatric evaluations, the court determined the accusations were "totally false." Montiel was fully acquitted, and the case was dismissed in December 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which goal is Gonzalo Montiel most famous for?
Montiel is most famous for scoring the winning penalty in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final, which secured the championship for Argentina against France.
Which clubs has Gonzalo Montiel played for?
He has played for River Plate in Argentina, Sevilla FC in Spain, and Nottingham Forest in England (on loan).
How many Copa América titles has Montiel won?
Montiel has won two Copa América titles, in 2021 and 2024.
When did Montiel return to River Plate?
Montiel returned to River Plate in January 2025 from Sevilla FC.
What is Montiel's primary playing position?
He plays as a right-back, a defensive position on the right side of the field responsible for both defending and supporting attacks.