The World Cup Winner Who Disappeared

Papu Gómez’s name once echoed through stadiums from Buenos Aires to Doha. A key figure in Argentina’s golden generation alongside Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María, he delivered three goals and four assists in the 2022 World Cup campaign, including a crucial strike against Croatia in the round of 16. Yet today, his current club—Padova in Italy’s second division—fights relegation with just two wins in 12 league games this season. His last competitive appearance came on March 18, 2026, in a 1-0 defeat to Cittadella.

Key verified stats:

• 2022 World Cup: 11 caps, 3 goals, 4 assists (Argentina’s top assist provider in the tournament)
• Serie A career: 16 assists in 2019-20 (record at the time), 50 goals in 209 appearances for Atalanta
• Current Padova stats (2025-26): 9 appearances, 0 goals, 0 assists (as of March 21, 2026)

Gómez’s career trajectory—from Arsenal de Sarandí to Catania, Metalist Kharkiv, Atalanta, Sevilla, Monza, and now Padova—reads like a footballing odyssey. Yet the silence around his current chapter feels deliberate. “He’s not the type to court publicity,” said a former Atalanta teammate in a 2024 interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. “But when he does post, it’s never random.”

Two Subtle Signals in a Sea of Silence

In an era where footballers meticulously craft their digital personas, Gómez’s social media activity is sparse. But two recent posts stand out:

These posts, separated by just three days, carry weight. The first is a nostalgic nod to his greatest achievement; the second, a quiet acknowledgment of gratitude to the club where he thrived. “It’s not just about the trophies,” said football psychologist Dr. Elena Rossi in a 2025 interview with Marca. “For players at this stage, it’s about legacy and closure.”

Doping Allegations, Witchcraft Rumors, and the Truth

The silence around Gómez’s career has fueled speculation. In 2023, Argentine outlet El Destape reported a viral rumor that Gómez had been “cursed” by a rival player’s family, leading to his decline. The story gained traction after he left Sevilla in 2023, but no evidence supports it. “Superstition in football is real, but this was pure fabrication,” said a source close to the Argentine Football Association.

A more credible controversy emerged in 2021 when Italian media Agencia NOVA suggested Gómez had tested positive for a banned substance during his time at Metalist Kharkiv. The Ukrainian Football Federation denied this, stating his files were “clean.” Gómez has never publicly addressed either allegation.

What is verified: Gómez holds dual Argentine-Italian citizenship (granted in 2016) and was eligible for both national teams. He made 17 appearances for Argentina between 2017 and 2022, scoring three goals. His last cap came in a 2-1 friendly win over Mexico on November 16, 2022—just days after the World Cup final.

Padova, Relegation, and an Uncertain Future

Padova’s 2025-26 season has been a struggle. As of June 2026, they sit 18th in Serie B with 25 points—just three above the relegation zone. Gómez, now 38, has played a minimal role, with coach Marco Baroni deploying him in just nine matches. “He’s a veteran leader, but his physical output isn’t what it was,” Baroni told Gazzetta dello Sport in April. “We use him wisely.”

Yet the two social media posts suggest Gómez remains engaged. The first—the World Cup anniversary post—was timed precisely to coincide with the four-year anniversary of Argentina’s triumph. The second, the Atalanta tribute, came as rumors swirled about a potential return to Serie A with a struggling club. “It’s not a cry for help,” said a source familiar with his inner circle. “It’s a signal to the right people.”

The Next Chapter: Three Possible Paths

Gómez’s career appears to be entering its final act. Three scenarios emerge from verified industry chatter:

1. Return to Serie A: Rumors persist about a move to newly relegated Genoa or Crotone, where he could provide experience to younger players. His social media tribute to Atalanta may hint at a desire to return to Italy’s top flight.
2. Mexican League: Clubs like Monterrey and Tigres have shown interest in veteran Argentine playmakers. Gómez’s dual citizenship could facilitate a transfer to Liga MX.
3. Retirement: With Padova’s relegation battle ongoing, some speculate he may call time on his career. His age (38) and physical limitations make this a plausible outcome.

One constant remains: Gómez’s connection to Argentina’s footballing legacy. His World Cup-winning status ensures he’ll never be forgotten entirely—but his current silence, punctuated by these two deliberate posts, suggests he’s choosing how and when to be remembered.

Key Questions About Papu Gómez’s Career

Why hasn’t Gómez been called up for Argentina recently?

Argentina’s national team has shifted its tactical approach under Lionel Scaloni, favoring younger players like Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández. Gómez’s age (38) and limited club form have made him expendable. His last cap was in November 2022.

Is there any truth to the “witchcraft curse” rumor?

No credible evidence supports the claim. The rumor originated from a 2023 El Destape article with no verifiable sources. Football superstition is common, but this appears to be baseless speculation.

Could Gómez still play in the 2026 World Cup?

Extremely unlikely. The tournament begins in November 2026, and Gómez would need to be fit, signed by a competitive club, and selected by Scaloni—none of which appear probable at this stage.