Argentine football has enjoyed huge success during these past few years and 2024 has not been an exception. Within the last four years, La Albiceleste have won four major honours to their name.
The South American followed up their 2021 Copa America success with the Finalissima and then World Cup glory in 2022. This year, the reigning world champions made it back to back Copa America triumphs after prevailing in the United States.
In this article, Soccernet.football takes a look at the top ten Argentine players who have made remarkable contributions for both their clubs and their nation this year.
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10. Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa)
The ever-reliable Aston Villa goalkeeper “Dibu” Martinez has consistently delivered for his Premier League club in 2024. His reflex saves and leadership have been pivotal in Villa’s strong performances both in domestic and European competitions. For Argentina, he remains a key figure with his crucial saves in the United States helping La Albiceleste to Copa America glory.
9. Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)
The young sensation at Manchester United has established himself as one of the brightest talents in world football. Garnacho’s goal against Manchester City to help the Red Devils win the FA Cup remains one of his biggest contributions in 2024. The 20-year-old also recently won the Puskas Award for his stunning bicycle-kick effort against Everton in November last year. For Argentina, Garnacho has emerged as a game-changing option, bringing youthful energy to the attack.
8. Ángel Di María (Benfica)
Di María’s return to Benfica has been nothing short of spectacular. The veteran playmaker’s experience and creativity have driven the Portuguese side’s success, including their pursuit of domestic silverware. His trademark curling shots and pinpoint passes remain a joy to watch. Internationally, Di María continues to be a mentor to the younger generation, proving his worth with key contributions during Argentina’s Copa success.
7. Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen)
Palacios has been a midfield stalwart for Bayer Leverkusen, anchoring their play in the Bundesliga and Europe. Known for his tireless work rate, precise passing, and tactical intelligence, he has played a crucial role in Leverkusen’s unprecedented Bundesliga title-winning campaign last season. For Argentina, Palacios adds depth and versatility, ensuring La Albiceleste maintain their dominance in South America.
6. Rodrigo De Paul (Atlético Madrid)
Nicknamed “El Motorcito,” De Paul has been a cornerstone for Atlético Madrid and Argentina. His industrious performances, combined with his ability to dictate tempo and create chances, have been instrumental for Diego Simeone’s side in La Liga. This season, he has played a significant role in Atleti’s resurgence and charge to the summit of La Liga. De Paul’s leadership qualities and fighting spirit were also on display as Argentina coasted to Copa America glory in 2024.
5. Mauro Icardi (Galatasaray)
Icardi’s resurgence at Galatasaray has been remarkable. The striker has rediscovered his scoring touch, leading the Turkish giants to domestic glory with a flurry of goals. His clinical finishing and impressive form in the Turkish Super Lig have unfortunately been unable to earn him a recall to the national team, with his last appearance in Argentina colours dating as far back as 2018.
4. Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid)
Alvarez moved to Atletico Madrid in the summer after helping Argentina to Copa America glory in the United States. The versatile forward has thrived in Madrid, delivering crucial goals and assists and seamlessly fitting into Simeone’s tactical setup. His undeniably immense talents have made him a key player for both club and country, earning him admiration for his ability to perform at the highest levels.
3. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
Even at 36, Messi remains a maestro. His move to Inter Miami brought unprecedented attention to Major League Soccer, and Messi didn’t disappoint. Leading his team to a historic Leagues Cup triumph, he has also been a beacon of creativity and consistency in the MLS. On the international scene, Messi’s leadership and magic on the pitch continue to inspire a new generation, as he orchestrates their attack with trademark brilliance.
2. Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)
Mac Allister’s arrival at Liverpool has been transformative for the 26-year-old’s career. His composure, vision, and ability to dictate play have rejuvenated Liverpool’s title aspirations under new boss Arne Slot. In 2024, he’s been a standout performer, contributing important goals and assists as the Reds pull away from the chasing pack. In terms of international football, Mac Allister’s versatility ensured he remained a mainstay in Argentina’s midfield, helping bridge the gap between defense and attack.
1. Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan)
Inter Milan’s captain and talisman Martínez, has been in scintillating form in 2024. His goal-scoring exploits last season guided Inter to domestic success as they clinched the Scudetto ahead of local rivals AC Milan. Widely known for his lethal finishing and tireless work rate, Lautaro’s leadership on and off the pitch has been invaluable. For his country, the 27-year-old established himself as their go-to striker, almost single-handedly firing Argentina to Copa glory in the United States.
