These Argentines conquered Europe!
Few countries have influenced European football as profoundly as Argentina. This South American nation has produced some of the finest footballers in history, with many of its top talents playing in Europe at some point in their careers. Virtually every elite European team has had an Argentine player in their ranks, many of whom have made unforgettable contributions.
Lionel Messi made history during his era-defining 17-season spell at Barcelona, winning a record 34 trophies with the Blaugrana. The brilliant Argentine attacker scored an astonishing 672 goals in 778 games, assisting countless others. After leaving Barcelona, he spent two years at Paris Saint-Germain before joining Inter Miami in 2023.
Diego Maradona transformed Napoli's history, guiding the southern Italian club to Serie A victories in 1987 and 1990, triumphing over the traditionally dominant northern teams. During his time at Napoli, he also won the UEFA Cup. Following his passing in 2020, the club honoured him by renaming their stadium in his memory. Before joining Napoli, Maradona had a brief yet impactful stint at Barcelona, and after his time in Italy, he played a season at Sevilla before returning to Argentina in 1993.
Alfredo Di Stefano joined Real Madrid in 1953, spearheading the team to eight La Liga titles and five European Cups during a remarkable era. Regarded as the club's finest player, the Argentine attacker proved his versatility and brilliance as the leading star among a constellation of icons. His illustrious 11-year tenure in the Spanish capital saw him net over 300 goals for Los Blancos, cementing his status as a legendary figure in football history.
Gabriel Batistuta, widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history, held the title of Argentina's all-time top scorer until Lionel Messi surpassed him. During his nine-year tenure at Fiorentina, despite securing only a Coppa Italia and a Supercoppa, his influence was profound. Fondly called "Batigol," he netted over 200 goals for Fiorentina, becoming one of the club's greatest icons. Later, he won a Serie A title with Roma, continuing to leave his mark on the sport.
During his immensely successful 10-season tenure with Manchester City, Sergio Aguero scored an impressive 260 goals in 390 appearances, establishing himself as the club's all-time leading scorer. He will forever be etched in City fans' memories for his unforgettable late win against Queens Park Rangers, securing the Premier League title in 2012. Aguero played a pivotal role in the club's decade-long triumphs at the Etihad before departing for Barcelona in 2021. Unfortunately, his career was cut short due to a heart condition shortly after his move to Barcelona. Prior to his time at City, Aguero enjoyed four fruitful seasons at Atletico Madrid, contributing 101 goals and aiding the Rojiblancos in capturing the Europa League and UEFA Super Cup in 2010.
Following stints at Talleres and Banfield in his native Argentina, Javier Zanetti joined Inter in 1995, where he spent nearly two decades. As a right-sided defender, Zanetti amassed over 850 appearances for the Nerazzurri from 1995 to 2014. During his tenure, he secured five Serie A titles and notably clinched the Champions League in 2009/10, playing a pivotal role in Jose Mourinho's side as they achieved a historic treble.
Some other players worth mentioning on this list are Diego Simeone, Fernando Redondo, Angel Di Maria, Javier Mascherano, and Carlos Tevez.
