A member of Jose Pekerman's 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship winning side, Esteban Cambiasso has been one the major beneficiaries of the coach's step-up to take charge of the senior team. The tireless midfielder made his full international debut in 2000, but had to wait until Pekerman succeeded Marcelo Bielsa in 2004 to become a regular starter. The 25-year-old has also benefited from his switch to Internazionale from Real Madrid, where his defensive qualities were consistently overlooked in favour of the flair of the Galacticos. He helped the Milan-based club to win the 2004-05 Coppa Italia during his first season in Italy and has established a reputation as one of the most effective midfielders in Serie A.