Since the Premier League’s inception in 1992, a host of top quality South Americans have graced its pitches – here’s the very best of the best
5) Javier Mascherano (West Ham United and Liverpool)
After first joining West Ham United from Brazilian side Corinthians in the summer of 2006, it wasn’t until Javier Mascherano made the switch to Anfield six months later that his career in Europe really took off. The Argentinian international was Liverpool’s hard-tackling midfielder and did all the dirty work for his companions Xabi Alonso and Steven Gerrard, with whom he formed a brilliant midfield trio during his stay on Merseyside from 2007 to 2010.
His passion, which at times got the better of him, made him a player loved by the fans and his reliability to execute his defensive duties made him a figure adored by manager Rafa Benitez. In August 2010, Masche decided to leave Liverpool for Barcelona – arguably the best club team in world football at the time – and ended a beautiful chapter in his career.
4) Alexis Sánchez (Arsenal)
After the arrival of Luis Suárez at Barcelona in the summer of 2014, Chilean superstar Alexis Sánchez had to look elsewhere for his playing minutes. Arsenal grabbed their chance and signed the highly-rated forward for big money. Being the main man, unlike at Barcelona, Sánchez showed his unbelievable ability and has given the Arsenal fans a lot of joy. Until his refusal to sign a new deal, that is.
A lot of rumors have suggested that Sánchez wants to leave the club, but when he is on the pitch he gives you 110% and is always the danger man for The Gunners. In the summer of 2018, the footballer’s contract will run out and the prediction is that Alexis will leave the Emirates. If the forward does, Alexis will leave as one of the club’s greatest ever players.
3) Carlos Tévez (West Ham United, Manchester United and Manchester City)
From saving West Ham United from relegation to instigating Manchester City’s rise; Carlos Tévez has been one of the most intriguing figures in Premier League history. The switch from Manchester United to Manchester City in 2009, made him both loved and hated in the same city. Tévez couldn’t care less, however, as he continued scoring goals at City.
The tenacious Argentinian forward won over the fans with his beautiful technique, hard-working mentality and above all, his eye for goal. Tévez, at his best, was impossible to play against and could take on any defense, despite being only 5ft8.
2) Sergio Agüero (Manchester City)
Sergio Agüero has been a world class striker during his time at the Etihad Stadium. His goal scoring record for City – 177 goals in 262 games – has equalled a club scoring record. What’s more, Agüero has suffered through so many injuries in his career as a Citizen.
Kun’s best moment as a City player will always be the late strike against Queens Park Rangers that won Manchester City their first league title in 44 years in 2012. It is one of the most iconic moments in the history of English football and it has made Agüero not only a City great, but also a legend of English football.
1) Luis Suárez (Liverpool)
The first word that springs to mind when thinking of Luis Suárez at Liverpool is controversy. Especially in the first part of his Anfield career, Suárez was frequently side-lined for mostly non-football related matters. Suárez showed his special abilities early on but only began to show it on a consistent basis two years into his stay at Liverpool.
His desire to win at all cost, excellent dribbling abilities, deadliness in front of goal and his unpredictability ensured that watching Luis Suárez always got fans out of their seats. Suárez was out of control but was simply one of the most sensational players the Premier League has ever had the pleasure to host.
