Valentino Andrés Acuña: The Rising Midfielder of Newell's Old Boys
In the heart of Rosario, Santa Fe, a new talent is emerging from the prestigious footballing culture of Argentina. Valentino Andrés Acuña is a dynamic midfielder who has quickly transitioned from a promising youth prospect to a professional mainstay at Newell's Old Boys. Known for his technical skill and composure, Acuña represents the next generation of Argentine footballing excellence.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Valentino Andrés Acuña
- Date of Birth: 27 January 2006
- Current Club: Newell's Old Boys (Jersey #10)
- Position: Midfielder
- International Experience: Represented Argentina at U17 and U20 levels
- Notable Achievement: Runner-up at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup and South American U-20 Championship
Club Career and Development
Acuña's journey began at the age of three with the local side Bancaria, where he first developed his passion for the game. His potential was quickly recognized by Newell's Old Boys, one of Argentina's most renowned academies, which he joined in 2010. He made an immediate impact during his youth tenure, notably scoring a hat-trick on his debut against the Brazilian club Botafogo.
His consistent performance in the youth ranks led to his first professional contract in December 2022, a three-year agreement that cemented his future with the club. Since transitioning to the senior squad in 2024, Acuña has become a regular fixture in the midfield, recording 21 appearances and one goal as of May 2026.
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International Success with Argentina
Acuña has been a key figure in Argentina's youth national teams. He first gained international prominence during the 2023 South American U-17 Championship, where he scored a decisive goal in a 1–0 victory over Bolivia. This performance earned him a spot in the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup squad, where he continued his scoring form by netting a goal in a 3–1 win against Japan.
Progressing to the U20 level, Acuña has helped lead Argentina to significant podium finishes. He was a member of the squad that secured the runner-up position at both the 2025 South American U-20 Championship in Venezuela and the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
A Unique Cinematic Connection
Beyond his athletic achievements, Acuña holds a unique place in cinema history. In 2014, film director Álex de la Iglesia discovered clips of the young player on YouTube. Impressed by his movements and likeness, the director cast Acuña as the body-double for a young Lionel Messi in the biopic film Messi.
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Career Summary
| Category | Details / Statistics |
|---|---|
| Senior Club (Newell's Old Boys) | 21 Apps, 1 Goal |
| Argentina U17 | 16 Apps, 2 Goals |
| Argentina U20 | 10 Apps, 0 Goals |
| Major Honors | FIFA U-20 World Cup Runner-up (2025), South American U-20 Championship Runner-up (2025) |
| Physical Profile | 1.77 m (5 ft 9 ½ in) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which professional team does Valentino Acuña play for?
Valentino Acuña currently plays as a midfielder for the Argentine club Newell's Old Boys, where he wears the number 10 jersey.
What is Acuña's connection to Lionel Messi?
In 2014, Acuña was cast by director Álex de la Iglesia to serve as the body-double for a young Lionel Messi in a biopic film after the director saw his playing clips on YouTube.
How has Acuña performed for the Argentine national team?
He has represented Argentina at both the U17 and U20 levels, scoring goals in the U-17 South American Championship and the FIFA U-17 World Cup, and achieving runner-up status in the 2025 U-20 World Cup and South American Championship.
When did Valentino Acuña sign his first professional contract?
Acuña signed his first professional contract with Newell's Old Boys in December 2022, agreeing to a three-year deal.