The unlikely classrooms where Argentine World Cup heroes were taught their maths lessons have been revealed – and it's a story that will tug at the heartstrings of every football fan. Meet Luciana Alvarengue, a maths teacher who formed unbreakable bonds with two of the Albiceleste stars: Enzo Fernández and Julián Álvarez.
The school, founded by River Plate to nurture its young talent, was no ordinary educational setting – it was where football and learning blended into a winning formula. And Alvarengue, who arrived in 2012 at the age of 26, was right at the heart of this unique setup. She taught Fernández from the age of 11 and Álvarez from 12, until they were both 14 – an unforgettable three-year journey that shaped them into the players we saw on the world stage last year.
For Alvarengue, it wasn't just about teaching maths; she was also a surrogate mother figure to these young footballers. Many of her pupils lived in club accommodation away from their families, creating an environment where teachers and students formed deep connections. In fact, lessons could be cancelled at short notice if the team had a midweek game – talk about being 'match-fit' for school!
Looking back, Alvarengue recalls two distinct personalities that stood out in her classroom. Julián Álvarez was calm, respectful, and diligent, often seeking emotional support from his teacher. In contrast, Enzo Fernández was a handful, frequently distracted by football and known for making noise in class – but with his feet firmly planted on the desk!
What's striking is that despite their differences, both players displayed remarkable maturity and leadership qualities that were far beyond their years. Alvarengue remembers conversations with them feeling more like chats with adults, a testament to their innate discipline and dedication.
The teacher also highlights how this early maturity is a common trait among the most talented footballers – they're often willing to make sacrifices for the team, even if it means missing out on social events. She recalls instances where Álvarez was left disappointed about missing birthday parties due to his football commitments – a poignant reminder of the costs of chasing greatness.
The school's hall proudly displays photographs of six former pupils who were part of Argentina's 2022 World Cup squad, including Álvarez and Fernández. For Alvarengue, watching her former students achieve global success is a heartwarming experience – 'they're still my students, even if they're no longer in the classroom', she says with pride.