Argentina has a rich footballing history, producing some of the greatest players the world has ever seen. From the legends of the past to the stars of the present, Argentine players have always captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their skill, flair, and passion for the game. Here’s a look at the 15 greatest Argentine footballers in history, ranked based on their impact, achievements, and legendary status.

1. Diego Maradona

Position: Attacking Midfielder / Forward

Era: 1976-1997

Key Achievements:

• FIFA World Cup Winner: 1986
• FIFA World Cup Golden Ball: 1986
• Serie A Champion: Napoli (2 times)

Maradona is widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. His heroics in the 1986 World Cup, where he led Argentina to victory, remain unforgettable, especially the “Goal of the Century” and the controversial “Hand of God” goal against England. Maradona’s dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring prowess made him an unparalleled icon of the sport.

2.Leonel Messi

Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder

Era: 2004-Present

Key Achievements:

• 7 Ballon d’Or Awards
• FIFA World Cup Winner: 2022
• 4 UEFA Champions League Titles: FC Barcelona

Lionel Messi, often compared to Maradona, has set numerous records and is considered one of the best players ever. His dribbling, playmaking, and goal-scoring abilities are unmatched. Winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup cemented his legacy as Argentina’s greatest player in modern football.

3. Alfredo Di Stéfano

Position: Forward / Attacking Midfielder

Era: 1945-1966

Key Achievements:

• 5 European Cups: Real Madrid
• 2 Ballon d’Or Awards

Although Di Stéfano never played in a World Cup, his influence on European football is unquestionable. As the main man for Real Madrid’s dominance in the 1950s, Di Stéfano showcased his versatility, tactical intelligence, and goal-scoring prowess, making him an all-time great.

4. Gabriel Batistuta

Position: Striker

Era: 1988-2005

Key Achievements:

• Argentina’s All-Time Top Scorer (until 2016)
• 2 Copa América Titles (1991, 1993)

Batistuta, known as “Batigol,” was a prolific goal-scorer renowned for his powerful shots and heading ability. He was Argentina’s go-to striker in the 1990s, and his consistency at both club and international levels earned him legendary status.

5. Daniel Passarella

Position: Defender

Era: 1971-1989

Key Achievements:

• 2 FIFA World Cups (1978, 1986)
• Serie A Champion: Fiorentina

Passarella is regarded as one of the best defenders in football history. As a captain of Argentina’s 1978 World Cup-winning team, he was known for his leadership, goal-scoring from defense, and his uncompromising style.

6. Juan Román Riquelme

Position: Attacking Midfielder

Era: 1996-2015

Key Achievements:

• 3 Copa Libertadores Titles: Boca Juniors
• Olympic Gold Medal: 2008

Riquelme was a master of the “enganche” or playmaker role. His vision, passing ability, and free-kick expertise made him an irreplaceable asset for both Boca Juniors and the Argentine national team.

7. Mario Kempes

Position: Forward

Era: 1970-1992

Key Achievements:

• FIFA World Cup Winner: 1978
• Golden Boot: 1978 World Cup

Kempes shone in the 1978 World Cup, where he became the tournament’s top scorer and led Argentina to its first World Cup triumph. His goal-scoring instinct and ability to perform in crucial moments made him a national hero.

8. Sergio Agüero

Position: Striker

Era: 2003-2021

Key Achievements:

• Premier League Titles (5): Manchester City
• Argentina’s Top 3 All-Time Scorer

Agüero, one of the most prolific strikers of his era, holds the record as Manchester City’s all-time top scorer. Known for his speed, agility, and finishing, he was a consistent goal threat throughout his career.

9. Carlos Tevez

Position: Forward

Era: 2001-2021

Key Achievements:

• UEFA Champions League Winner: 2008
• Copa Libertadores Winner: 2003

Tevez, a tireless and dynamic forward, achieved success at club level in different leagues around the world. His combination of strength, dribbling, and goal-scoring made him a standout talent.

10. Javier Zanetti

Position: Defender / Midfielder

Era: 1992-2014

Key Achievements:

• UEFA Champions League Winner: 2010
• 5 Serie A Titles: Inter Milan

As one of the most consistent and versatile players, Zanetti played over 850 games for Inter Milan. His leadership and ability to perform in multiple positions made him an invaluable player for both club and country.

11. Omar Sivori

Position: Forward

Era: 1954-1969

Key Achievements:

• Ballon d’Or Winner: 1961

Sivori was a magician with the ball, known for his dribbling and flair. He made a name for himself in Italy with Juventus and left an indelible mark on Argentine football history.

12. Hernán Crespo

Position: Striker

Era: 1993-2012

Key Achievements:

• UEFA Champions League Runner-Up: 2005
• Serie A Top Scorer

Crespo was a clinical striker with exceptional heading ability and positioning. He consistently found the back of the net for both club and country.

13. Fernando Redondo

Position: Midfielder

Era: 1985-2004

Key Achievements:

• UEFA Champions League Titles: 1998, 2000

Redondo was an elegant midfielder known for his composure, passing, and tactical intelligence. His performances in the Champions League with Real Madrid remain legendary.

14. Ariel Ortega

Position: Attacking Midfielder / Forward

Era: 1991-2012

Key Achievements:

• 3 Copa América Titles

Ortega, often called “El Burrito,” was known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and unpredictable style of play. He remains a beloved figure in Argentine football.

15. Ángel Di María

Position: Winger / Forward

Era: 2005-Present

Key Achievements:

• FIFA World Cup Winner: 2022
• UEFA Champions League Winner: 2014

Di María has been a crucial player for Argentina and several top European clubs. His speed, creativity, and ability to score in big games have made him one of Argentina’s most influential players in recent years.

15 Greatest Argentine Players in Football History [Ranked]