Argentina has produced many great footballers over the years, including Angel Di Maria, Lionel Messi, and Diego Maradona. Today, we focus on the best Argentinian wonderkids under 21.
This list features players who are 21 or younger—those above this age are not included.
Valentin Barco
Valentin Barco is among the top young left-backs worldwide and has already played successfully in three major European leagues.
At 5ft 7, he is smaller than most defenders. However, his height helps him maintain balance, making it hard for opponents to push him off the ball.
His main strengths lie in his attacking skills, allowing him to play as a wing-back or left midfielder.
Nico Paz
Nico Paz is one of the standout young talents in Serie A, impressing defences with Cesc Fabregas’ Como.
This 21-year-old has scored nine goals and provided six assists in Italy’s top league this season, along with one goal in the Italian Cup.
As an attacking midfielder, Paz can also play as a centre-forward or central midfielder when needed.
Franco Mastantuono
At 18, Franco Mastantuono is the youngest player on this list and may have the most potential.
He joined Real Madrid during the summer transfer window after previously playing for River Plate in Argentina.
This season, he has made 15 appearances for Real Madrid’s first team, scoring one goal and providing one assist in the Champions League across five matches.
Santiago Castro
Santiago Castro is reminiscent of a young Gonzalo Higuain—he is technically skilled, has great timing, and a sharp eye for goal.
Currently playing for Bologna in Serie A, he has scored seven goals and provided two assists in 22 league matches.
Though he hasn’t earned his first senior cap for La Albiceleste yet, his talent is likely to secure him a place in the team soon.
Alejandro Garnacho
It’s hard to believe Alejandro Garnacho is just 21; he seems to have been on the scene much longer, highlighting his talent.
While he was born in Madrid, he represents Argentina internationally. Garnacho previously played for Manchester United and transferred to Chelsea for £40 million this summer.