Based on their performances throughout 2025 at both club and international level, Roy Nemer and Osvaldo Godoy of Mundo Albiceleste selected an Argentina National Team Best XI that reflects form, consistency, and impact rather than reputation alone. The team is set up in a traditional 4-4-2 formation and includes a mix of established leaders and players who stood out over the calendar year.
In goal, the choice is Agustín Rossi, whose season with Flamengo was one of the strongest among Argentine goalkeepers. Rossi played a key role in Flamengo’s Copa Libertadores triumph and delivered several decisive performances in high-stakes matches. While Emiliano Martínez remains the undisputed starter for Argentina, Rossi’s 2025 form at club level earned him this selection.
The back line begins on the left with Nicolás Tagliafico, who continued to provide reliability and consistency with Lyon and the national team. His tactical discipline and experience made him the clear choice at left back. At center back, Leonardo Balerdi was selected after a strong year as captain of Marseille, where he established himself as a defensive leader while also earning more minutes with Argentina during periods of rotation and injuries. Alongside him is Cristian Romero, whose level remained elite throughout 2025. Romero continued to perform at a high standard for Tottenham and Argentina, reinforcing his status as one of the country’s most dependable defenders.
At right back, the selection is Agustín Giay, who impressed with Palmeiras in Brazil. Despite strong competition historically at the position, Giay stood out due to the inconsistent seasons of other options. His regular involvement in key matches and steady performances earned him a place in the XI.
The midfield reflects the depth Argentina enjoyed in 2025. Sitting deeper is Alexis Mac Allister, who enjoyed another successful year with Liverpool, winning the Premier League and maintaining his importance under Lionel Scaloni. His balance, passing, and positional intelligence made him the most consistent option in that role. To his right is Enzo Fernández, arguably the most in-form Argentine midfielder of the year. Fernández was a central figure for Chelsea, wore the captain’s armband on several occasions, and delivered strong performances with Argentina, confirming his status as a midfield cornerstone.
On the opposite side, Valentín Barco was chosen for his evolution into a midfield role. Barco had a standout year with Strasbourg, contributing assists, creativity, and versatility, and becoming one of the most influential players in his team’s rise in Ligue 1. Operating ahead of the midfield line is Nico Paz, who continued to grow in importance at club level and added goals to his game. His intelligence in the final third and increasing involvement with the national team made him one of the most promising Argentine players of 2025.
Up front, no Argentine Best XI would be complete without Lionel Messi. Messi continued to make a decisive impact with Inter Miami, contributing goals, assists, and leadership, while also remaining influential with Argentina. Even in a different league environment, his level throughout the year justified his inclusion once again.
Partnering him is Julián Álvarez, who enjoyed a productive season with Atlético Madrid. Álvarez’s versatility, work rate, and ability to score and assist in different contexts gave him the edge over other attacking options. His performances for Argentina, including in high-profile matches, reinforced his standing as one of the country’s most complete forwards.
Several notable names narrowly missed out on the XI, highlighting Argentina’s depth in 2025. Players such as Lautaro Martínez, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, Rodrigo De Paul, Paulo Dybala, and Franco Mastantuono all had strong moments across the year, but competition for places was intense. The selection reflects a snapshot of form rather than a projection for future tournaments.
