10 Greatest Soccer Players in Argentina

Argentina has produced some of the world’s most talented soccer stars. In this list of the 10 Greatest Soccer Players in Argentina, we highlight iconic Argentine players known for their skill, achievements and legacy on the global stage. From Argentine football legends like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona to best Argentine soccer stars like Zanetti and Batistuta, each name below made Argentina proud. We’ll cover their career highlights, major achievements, and lasting legacy.

1. Lionel Messi

Career Highlights

• Broke into FC Barcelona’s first team as a teenager and became the club’s all-time top scorer (672 goals).
• Led Barcelona to 10 La Liga titles and 4 UEFA Champions League trophies.
• Scored 91 goals in the 2012 calendar year (Guinness World Record).
• Debuted for Argentina in 2005; won 106+ caps (all-time leading scorer) and played in 5 World Cups, captaining the team.

Major Achievements

• 8× Ballon d’Or (record), 4× UEFA Champions League champion, 10× La Liga champion.
• FIFA World Cup Champion (2022) – Led Argentina to victory and won the Golden Ball (tournament MVP).
• 2× Copa América champion (2021, 2022), Olympic Gold Medalist (2008).
• 17× La Liga scoring title and many club/individual records (e.g. all-time top scorer in La Liga).

Legacy

Lionel Messi is widely regarded as one of the most decorated players ever. He set numerous scoring and playmaking records for both club and country. Beyond his numbers, Messi’s dribbling, vision and consistency make him an Argentine football legend. Even in retirement from international play, his name remains synonymous with “greatest soccer players.” Fans still debate Messi vs. Maradona, but there’s no doubt Messi belongs at the very top of Argentina’s greatest list.

2. Diego Maradona

Career Highlights

• Starred for Boca Juniors, Barcelona and Napoli; led Napoli to their first two Serie A titles (1987, 1990).
• Captained Argentina to 1986 FIFA World Cup glory, scoring the famous “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” in the quarterfinal.
• Played 91 games for Argentina, scoring 34 goals (then 5th highest in national history).
• Played in four World Cups (1982–1994) and won the 1990 World Cup runner-up position.

Major Achievements

• 1986 World Cup Champion (FIFA Golden Ball winner for best player).
• 9 major trophies in club career (1× Argentine league, 3× Barcelona cups, 5× Napoli trophies).
• 2 international trophies: 1986 World Cup and 1989 Artemio Franchi Cup.
• Named one of FIFA’s 125 Greatest Living Players (2004).

Legacy

Diego Maradona is the undisputed hero of Argentine soccer’s “golden generation.” His brilliance at the 1986 World Cup, where he was involved in more than half of Argentina’s goals, cemented his status. As an Argentine football legend, Maradona’s flair and larger-than-life personality inspire generations. Even decades later, he remains a cultural icon. Argentina fans revere Maradona for carrying their team to glory almost single-handedly.

3. Alfredo Di Stéfano

Career Highlights

• Argentine-born forward who became Real Madrid’s first global star in the 1950s and 1960s.
• Played only a few games for Argentina (6 caps), but later starred for Spain internationally.
• Transformed Real Madrid into Europe’s dominant club. He scored relentlessly (307 goals in 403 games) and led the team through an era of unprecedented success.

Major Achievements

• 2× Ballon d’Or winner (1957, 1959).
• 5 consecutive European Cup (Champions League) titles with Real Madrid.
• 8× Spanish La Liga champion, 1× Copa del Rey (Spanish Cup).
• 10× Pichichi (La Liga top scorer) titles during his career.

Legacy

Alfredo Di Stéfano is often called the “Blond Arrow” and is credited with giving Real Madrid its winning DNA. Although much of his success came in Spain, he was born and began his career in Argentina, making him one of the greatest players Argentina produced. His versatility, relentless work rate and scoring prowess (as both midfielder and forward) set him apart. As one of the game’s early superstars, Di Stéfano’s legacy lies in revolutionizing European club football and laying the groundwork for Argentina’s tradition of exporting top talent abroad.

4. Gabriel Batistuta

Career Highlights

• Prolific striker nicknamed “Batigol.” Key player for Fiorentina (Italy) and Roma.
• Argentine record goalscorer for many years: 56 goals in 78 matches for Argentina.
• Played in three World Cups (1994, 1998, 2002); scored hat-tricks in 1994 (versus Greece, Nigeria).

Major Achievements

• Serie A Champion (Scudetto 2001) with AS Roma.
• 2× Copa América winner with Argentina (1991, 1993).
• Finished as Argentina’s all-time top scorer (56 goals) until Messi surpassed him.
• Top scorer in 1991 FIFA Confederations Cup (shared Golden Shoe).

Legacy

Gabriel Batistuta was the archetype of an Argentine power forward. Known for his powerful shooting and aerial ability, he terrorized defenses both in Europe and internationally. Batistuta’s goals won trophies for club and country: he gave Fiorentina unprecedented success in Italy and delivered Roma’s long-awaited 2001 league title. For Argentina, he provided firepower, earning the nickname Batigol. Even after retirement, he remains a beloved figure among fans as one of Argentina’s greatest strikers and best Argentine soccer stars of his era.

5. Daniel Passarella

Career Highlights

• Central defender and captain of Argentina’s 1978 World Cup-winning team. Also in the 1986 World Cup squad (though injured).
• Played for River Plate (Argentina) and Fiorentina/Inter (Italy) in the 1970s and 80s.
• Remarkable goal-scoring defender: scored 22 goals in 70 matches for Argentina, a high tally for a center-back.

Major Achievements

• 2× FIFA World Cup Champion (1978, 1986). He was captain in 1978.
• At one time, the world’s highest-scoring defender: 134 goals in 451 club games.
• 3× Argentine Primera División champion with River Plate; later managed Argentina’s national team.
• Named by Pelé to FIFA’s 100 Greatest Living Footballers (2004).

Legacy

Passarella is remembered as one of Argentina’s greatest defenders and leaders. His fierce tackling and goal-scoring ability (unusual for a defender) made him unique. He set the standard as Argentina’s first big World Cup-winning captain. His name is often mentioned among Argentina’s top footballers of the 20th century. Passarella’s legacy includes a stint as Argentina’s manager, but above all he symbolizes the tough, winning spirit of Argentine football legends.

6. Juan Román Riquelme

Career Highlights

• Creative playmaker known for his vision and technique (classic “enganche” #10 role). Starred at Boca Juniors and Villarreal (Spain).
• Scored 17 goals in 51 games for Argentina. He won Olympic gold with Argentina at the 2008 Beijing Games.
• Played key roles in three Copa América tournaments (runner-up 2007) and led Argentina in the 2006 World Cup.

Major Achievements

• 11 major titles with Boca Juniors: 5 Argentine Primera División, 3× Copa Libertadores, 1× Intercontinental Cup (2003, where he starred).
• UEFA Intertoto Cup (2004) leading Villarreal into the UEFA Cup semi-final (historic run).
• Top scorer and MVP of the 2007 Copa Libertadores (finished runner-up).

Legacy

Juan Román Riquelme is celebrated as one of the most skillful Argentine footballers of his generation. He controlled games with his passing and dribbling, inspiring comparisons to bygone legends. Even though he didn’t rack up as many goals as others, Riquelme’s influence on the pitch was immense. He is often listed among Argentina’s greatest playmakers and football icons. His legacy lives on in Boca Juniors folklore and in how young Argentine attackers model their play after his style.

7. Mario Kempes

Career Highlights

• Powerful striker who starred for Valencia (Spain) and was the centerpiece of Argentina’s 1978 World Cup team.
• Played 43 matches for Argentina, scoring 20 goals.
• In the 1978 World Cup, Kempes scored 6 goals (Golden Boot winner), including two in the final against the Netherlands.

Major Achievements

• 1978 World Cup Champion – Golden Boot (top scorer) and Golden Ball (best player).
• La Liga champion (1979–80) and Copa del Rey winner with Valencia.
• Copa América runner-up (1979) with Argentina; top scorer in the 1980 Copa América.

Legacy

Mario Kempes will always be remembered as the hero of Argentina’s first World Cup triumph. His performance at the 1978 Finals – especially scoring twice in the final – made him a national icon. Kempes’ strength and finishing ability made him the prototype of an Argentine goal scorer. Though he played before the modern era of Argentine greats like Maradona/Messi, Kempes’ World Cup success secures his place among the country’s best footballers and Argentine football legends.

8. Javier Zanetti

Javier Zanetti, iconic Argentine defender, celebrating a moment for Inter Milan.

Career Highlights

• Long-time full-back/midfielder for Inter Milan (Italy) and vice-captain of the Argentine national team.
• Made a record 143 appearances for Argentina. Participated in 5 World Cups (1998–2014).
• Known for longevity and consistency: spent 19 seasons at Inter, serving 15 of them as captain.

Major Achievements

• 858 games for Inter (club record). He won 16 major trophies there: 5× Serie A (2006–2010), 4× Coppa Italia, 4× Supercoppa Italiana, 1× UEFA Champions League (2010), 1× UEFA Cup (1998), and 1× FIFA Club World Cup (2010).
• FIFA World Cup champion (2022) teammate? (No, Zanetti never won WC; but he captained Argentina at the 2002 World Cup.)
• Frequently cited as one of the world’s most respected players for his professionalism and leadership.

Legacy

Javier Zanetti is revered as one of Argentina’s most beloved soccer figures. An ever-present force, his consistency and humility made him a role model. He holds the Argentine record for caps, highlighting his importance to La Albiceleste. As Inter’s captain he brought unprecedented success (a historic treble in 2010). Zanetti’s legacy is that of a consummate team player and leader – a true Argentine legend whose trophy haul with Inter and dedication to his country earn him a place among the best Argentine soccer stars.

9. Sergio Agüero

Career Highlights

• Prolific striker who starred for Independiente (Argentina), Atlético Madrid, Manchester City, and the Argentina national team.
• Scored 41 goals in 101 games for Argentina. Represented Argentina at 3 World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018) and 3 Copa Américas (2007, 2015, 2016).
• Became Manchester City’s all-time top scorer (260 goals) after moving there in 2011.

Major Achievements

• 5× Premier League champion with Manchester City, where he holds the club scoring record (260 goals).
• 2021 Copa América champion with Argentina, and 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist.
• Member of Atlético Madrid squad that won Europa League (2010) and UEFA Super Cup (2010).

Legacy

Sergio “Kun” Agüero is one of Argentina’s most successful forwards of the modern era. His ability to score in every situation made him a legend at Manchester City, where he delivered the famous 2012 title-clincher (“93:20”). For Argentina, he provided key goals (including a hat-trick versus Peru in 2016 that helped qualify for the World Cup). Agüero’s career was unfortunately cut short by injury, but he retired as an all-time great – Olympic and Copa América champion – and remains in the conversation among Argentina’s top footballers.

10. Carlos Tevez

Career Highlights

• Hard-working forward who played for Boca Juniors, Corinthians, West Ham, Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus, and the Argentine national team.
• 76 caps and 13 goals for Argentina. Represented Argentina at the 2006 World Cup.
• Known for his tireless running and chip-on-shoulder mentality, making an impact at each club he joined.

Major Achievements

• Manchester United (2007–2009): 2× Premier League titles (2008, 2009), 2008 UEFA Champions League, 2008 FIFA Club World Cup.
• Manchester City: 1× Premier League (2012), and he scored the title-winning goal in 2012 in the dramatic 93rd minute (93:20).
• Boca Juniors: 2× Argentine Primera División, 3× Copa Libertadores (2003, 2007, 2008).
• 2015 Copa América – Member of Argentina’s runner-up squad.

Legacy

Carlos Tevez is often remembered for his passion and never-say-die attitude on the pitch. Though his goal totals (308 club goals) may be overshadowed by others, Tevez’s knack for crucial contributions stands out. He proved himself in three of Europe’s top leagues and brought trophies to every team he played for. In Argentina, he inspired many with his journey from the slums of Buenos Aires to global stardom. Tevez’s legacy is as one of the best Argentine soccer stars of the 2000s – a champion on multiple stages who embodied Argentine grit and determination.

Conclusion: The 10 Greatest Soccer Players in Argentina have each left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. From Lionel Messi’s record-breaking exploits to Diego Maradona’s divine moments, these Argentine football legends span generations of greatness. They include scoring records (Messi, Batistuta), World Cup triumphs (Maradona, Passarella), and club glory (Di Stéfano with Real Madrid, Zanetti with Inter). Together, they represent the passion and talent that make Argentina a soccer powerhouse. Which of these iconic Argentine players is your favorite? Share this list with fellow fans, let us know in the comments, and celebrate these top Argentina footballers!

FAQs

Q: Who are the 10 greatest soccer players in Argentina?
A: The top 10 include legendary names like Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, Alfredo Di Stéfano, Gabriel Batistuta, Daniel Passarella, Juan Riquelme, Mario Kempes, Javier Zanetti, Sergio Agüero, and Carlos Tevez. Each of these iconic Argentine players achieved great success at club and international level.

Q: What achievements made Lionel Messi one of Argentina’s greatest players?
A: Messi broke club and country records. He scored a record 672 goals for Barcelona and won 4 Champions Leagues. For Argentina he won the 2022 World Cup (Golden Ball winner) and 2 Copa América titles. He also earned 8 Ballon d’Or awards, the most ever, cementing his status as one of the football greats.

Q: How many World Cups did Diego Maradona win with Argentina?
A: Maradona won one FIFA World Cup with Argentina, in 1986, famously captaining the team and starring throughout the tournament. He also helped Argentina reach the 1990 final.

Q: Who holds Argentina’s all-time scoring record?
A: Gabriel Batistuta held the record for many years with 56 goals in 78 games for Argentina. In recent times, Lionel Messi has surpassed that mark and is now Argentina’s top scorer.

Q: Which Argentine players have won both the World Cup and the UEFA Champions League?
A: Among Argentines on this list, Lionel Messi has won both (4 Champions League titles and the 2022 World Cup). Diego Maradona won the World Cup (1986) but never played in a European Champions League final due to the era he played in. Passarella won two World Cups (1978, 1986) but also did not compete for a European club title.

Q: Why is Juan Román Riquelme considered one of Argentina’s greatest soccer stars?
A: Riquelme was a master playmaker who won 11 titles with Boca Juniors (including 3 Copa Libertadores) and captained Argentina’s Olympic gold medal team in 2008. He was known for his vision and passing, earning praise as one of the best Argentine footballers of his era.