Ranking the 20 best Argentinian footballers in Premier League history

Flair and grit

Argentina has produced some of the Premier League's most memorable players. In fact, the nation's footballers have consistently made their mark on English football, bringing South American flair and grit to the top flight. This ranking celebrates the 20 finest Argentinian talents to have graced the Premier League, based on their achievements, impact and lasting legacy at their respective clubs.

20. Julián Speroni

Crystal Palace's longest-serving goalkeeper established himself as a fan favourite at Selhurst Park through his consistent performances and unwavering loyalty from 2004 to 2019. The shot-stopper arrived from Dundee and became synonymous with Palace's identity, making over 400 appearances across all competitions, per Transfermarkt. Speroni was instrumental in the club's promotion campaigns and provided stability during turbulent periods in the club's history.

18. Manuel Lanzini

Lanzini became a key player during his eight-year spell with the Hammers. Signed from Al Jazira in 2015, Lanzini quickly established himself as the side's primary playmaker, contributing crucial goals and assists in big matches. His standout moment came with a spectacular rocket against Tottenham in 2020, showcasing the talent that made him a fan favourite.

17. Hernán Crespo

Chelsea's acquisition of the prolific striker from Inter Milan in 2003 was a statement of intent from Roman Abramovich's newly wealthy club. Crespo arrived as one of the world's most feared goalscorers, and although his three-year spell was disrupted by a loan spell back to AC Milan, he still managed to contribute important goals during Chelsea's transitional period.

16. Juan Sebastián Verón

The midfield maestro arrived at Manchester United from Lazio in 2001 as one of Europe's finest playmakers. His technical ability and passing range were undeniable, but he struggled to find a spot in United's incredibly talented engine room and eventually moved to rivals Chelsea. However, his legacy remains that of a supremely gifted player whose talents were perhaps better suited to Serie A than the Premier League.

15. Esteban Cambiasso

Leicester City's veteran midfielder brought vast experience and leadership to the King Power Stadium during their miraculous 2014-15 great escape. The former Inter Milan captain arrived on a free transfer and immediately impressed with his work rate and tactical intelligence. His single season in England certainly showcased why he had been one of Europe's most respected midfielders for over a decade.

14. Jonás Gutiérrez

The versatile winger became a beloved figure on Tyneside thanks to his tireless running and never-say-die attitude. Signed from Real Mallorca in 2008, Gutiérrez overcame testicular cancer to return and score crucial goals in Newcastle's 2015 relegation battle. His courage and determination made him a symbol of resilience, both on and off the pitch.

13. Enzo Fernández

Chelsea's record signing arrived from Benfica in January 2023, making him the most expensive Argentinian in Premier League history. After a shaky start, the World Cup winner has begun to regularly display glimpses of his exceptional passing ability, leadership and work rate, becoming a key member of Enzo Maresca's setup as the Blues secured a return to the Champions League.

12. Martín Demichelis

Demichelis joined Manchester City from Atlético Madrid in 2013 as an experienced centre-back to provide leadership and stability to the club's defence. Despite some high-profile errors, Demichelis played a crucial role in City's 2013-14 Premier League title triumph. Overall, his experience and professionalism made him a valuable squad player during City's emergence as a Premier League powerhouse.

10. Julián Álvarez

A versatile forward, Álvarez arrived at Manchester City from River Plate in 2022 as one of South America's hottest prospects. The World Cup winner quickly adapted to Pep Guardiola's system, contributing goals and assists while showing a remarkable work rate and tactical intelligence. Though his City career was brief, Álvarez proved he belonged at the highest level before departing for Atlético Madrid.

9. Maxi Rodríguez

Operating off either flank, Maxi brought creativity and goals to Anfield during his three-year spell under Rafael Benítez and Roy Hodgson. Signed from Atlético Madrid in 2009, Rodríguez was known for his spectacular long-range strikes and technical ability. His most memorable moment came with a stunning hat-trick against Fulham in 2011 (pictured), showcasing the flair that made him a popular figure during a transitional period.

8. Nicolás Otamendi

The combative centre-back arrived from Valencia in 2015 with a reputation as one of La Liga's most reliable defenders. During the early years of Pep Guardiola's reign, despite some rash performances, Otamendi formed crucial partnerships at the heart of City's defence, helping secure two Premier League titles. His aggressive style and aerial prowess made him a key component of City's domestic dominance during his five-year stay.

7. Emiliano Martínez

'Dibu' has established himself as one of the Premier League's finest shot-stoppers and most charismatic personalities. After years in Arsenal's academy system, Martínez flourished at Villa Park following his 2020 move, combining excellent reflexes with strong leadership. His World Cup triumph with Argentina and penalty-saving heroics have made him a global star and Villa legend.

6. Javier Mascherano

Mascherano was a tenacious operator who quickly became one of the Premier League's best defensive midfielders. Arriving in 2007 on the back of a highly controversial spell at West Ham, Mascherano quickly established himself as Liverpool's midfield anchor under Rafael Benítez. His combative style and leadership qualities made him indispensable during Liverpool's Champions League campaigns and title challenges, ultimately earning him a move to Barcelona.

5. Gabriel Heinze

Signed from Paris Saint-Germain in 2004, Heinze quickly became a fan favourite during his three-year stint at Old Trafford, thanks to his marauding runs and aggressive, defensive solidity. His controversial attempted move to Liverpool ultimately ended his United career, but his impact during the club's mid-2000s success was undeniable, winning the title in 2006-07.

4. Alexis Mac Allister

Mac Allister has been one of the Premier League's most complete players since joining Brighton from Argentinos Juniors in 2019. The creative midfielder's technical ability, work rate and versatility helped Brighton establish themselves as a top-flight force before his 2023 move to Liverpool. His World Cup triumph with Argentina, then 2025 title win with the Reds, cemented his status as one of the world's best.

3. Pablo Zabaleta

Manchester City's legendary right-back epitomised dedication and professionalism throughout his 12-year Premier League career. Arriving from Espanyol in 2008, Zabaleta became the archetypal modern full-back under Roberto Mancini and Manuel Pellegrini at City.

A true leader

Zaba's relentless attacking runs and defensive reliability made him a cornerstone of City's transformation from also-rans to champions. However, his legacy extends beyond his two Premier League titles and FA Cup triumph to his role as a mentor and leader. His emotional farewell at the Etihad Stadium demonstrated the deep affection supporters held for the Argentinian warrior.

2. Carlos Tévez

The bulldog striker's Premier League journey began controversially at West Ham in 2006, where his goals helped save the club from relegation. Tévez's move to Manchester United in 2007 then saw him form a devastating partnership with Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, winning two Premier League titles and a Champions League.

A transformative signing

However, Tévez's controversial cross-city move to Manchester City in 2009 sparked outrage among United fans but proved transformative for City's ambitions. Following the infamous 'Welcome to Manchester' poster, his goals and leadership ultimately led to City's FA Cup triumph and maiden Premier League title in 2012.

1. Sergio Agüero

Manchester City's record goalscorer arrived from Atlético Madrid in 2011 and immediately transformed the club's fortunes with his clinical finishing and big-game mentality. Agüero's debut season culminated in the most famous moment in Premier League history: his 93rd-minute winner against QPR that secured City's first title in 44 years (pictured). His 184 Premier League goals, per Transfermarkt, established him as one of the division's greatest-ever strikers.