Argentina boasts a rich football legacy, with legends like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona hailing from this South American powerhouse. The fierce football rivalry between Argentina and Brazil is deeply ingrained in the sport’s history.
Today, Argentina continues to produce exceptional talent, consistently showcasing world-class players on the global stage. After a long 28-year drought, the team clinched the Copa America last year.
‘La Albiceleste’ looks strong once more and has high hopes for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Now, let’s explore five of the top Argentine players currently making wave
5 Emiliano Martinez – Aston Villa
Argentina’s top goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, is as distinctive as he is skilled. At 29, he plays for Aston Villa, having previously been with Arsenal since 2010. Although he joined Arsenal’s senior team in 2012, he spent much of his time on loan.
Martinez gained recognition during the 2019-20 season when he stepped up for the injured Bernd Leno. His impressive performances led him to move to Aston Villa in 2020, where he has become one of the Premier League’s top goalkeepers.
Known for his confidence and vocal leadership, Martinez has made 23 high claims in the league this season. He delivered notable performances, including a crucial shootout win against Colombia in the semi-finals. Despite facing challenges this season, he’s gradually returning to form.
So far, Martinez has played 27 Premier League matches, keeping nine clean sheets and saving one penalty.
ALSO READ:Top 5 Best Goalkeepers at Copa America 2024
4. Paulo Dybala – Juventus
After a disappointing 2020-21 season, Paulo Dybala was expected to leave Juventus last summer. However, with Massimiliano Allegri returning as head coach, Dybala chose to stay, having previously thrived under Allegri.
Despite Allegri’s return, Juventus still struggles to find their rhythm and appear disjointed.
This season, Dybala has been a standout performer, scoring 12 goals and providing six assists in 28 matches. His creativity is crucial for the team, but his recurring injuries are becoming a significant concern. Without him, Juventus often lack attacking ideas. Additionally, his high wages may become a burden if his fitness issues persist, potentially leading the club to reconsider his future.
3. Angel Correa – Atletico Madrid
Atletico Madrid, despite winning La Liga last season and boasting a roster full of top talent, are struggling this year. It’s surprising given their impressive squad.
Angel Correa, a player of exceptional skill, isn’t always a starter due to the team’s depth. He has only begun 18 La Liga matches and come off the bench 10 times. In the Champions League, he has started three games and been a substitute in five.
Correa, known for his speed, agility, and technical ability, excels at navigating tight spaces. His chemistry with Luis Suarez and Antoine Griezmann is notable, and he has scored important goals for Atletico this season.
In total, Correa has made 39 appearances for Atletico Madrid this season, scoring 12 goals and providing six assists.
2. Lionel Messi – Paris Saint-Germain
Lionel Messi is having one of his toughest seasons yet, but even with this struggle, he’s still second on the list, reflecting the high standards he’s set for himself. Widely considered one of the greatest footballers ever, Messi won his record seventh Ballon d’Or in 2021.
After joining Paris Saint-Germain last summer, Messi has faced challenges in Ligue 1. The 34-year-old, known for his prolific scoring, has netted only two goals in 18 league games this season.
Overall, he has scored seven goals and made 11 assists in 26 appearances for PSG. He couldn’t lead PSG past Real Madrid in the Champions League Round of 16 and was criticized for his performance. Recently, both Messi and Neymar were booed by PSG fans during a match against Bordeaux, following their Champions League exit.
1. Lautaro Martinez – Inter Milan
Argentina’s key strength is their star striker, Lautaro Martinez. At just 24, Martinez has emerged as a dependable scorer for both club and country. Last season, he was pivotal in Inter Milan’s Serie A victory.
This season, he continues to shine, contributing significantly to Inter’s title quest with 16 goals and 2 assists in 38 matches. Martinez is now one of the most coveted young forwards globally. Lionel Scaloni will be counting on him to maintain this form for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
ALSO READ:
