Marcos Senesi says Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni asked him to replicate his Bournemouth form during his first international start — a night that marked a major personal milestone for the defender.
The 27-year-old was handed his first start for the world champions in their 1-0 friendly win over Venezuela in Miami, where his composure and distribution drew praise from Argentine media. After years of waiting for a full opportunity, Senesi delivered a performance that underlined just how far he’s come since arriving in the Premier League.
Senesi: “He asked me to play the same way I do at the club”
Speaking to DSports after the match, Senesi said Scaloni’s message was simple — trust your instincts.
“I’m very happy to be here and to be able to play for this national team, trying to enjoy it as much as possible. I knew the call-up would come. The manager asked me to play the same way I do at the club — to find passes between the lines and enjoy it to the fullest. Having Cuti and the whole team around gives you enormous peace of mind.” — Marcos Senesi, *DSports*
Paired with Cristian ‘Cuti’ Romero, his Premier League counterpart from Tottenham, Senesi looked right at home. The duo’s balance — Romero’s aggression complemented by Senesi’s calm control — gave Argentina’s back line a familiar Premier League rhythm.
From Bournemouth mainstay to Argentina debutant
Senesi’s rise has mirrored Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth project. Since arriving from Feyenoord, he’s developed into a reliable, ball-playing centre-back, comfortable stepping into midfield and launching attacks.
That evolution has clearly impressed Scaloni, who is reshaping Argentina’s defensive depth ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Reports from Buenos Aires outlets described Senesi as “serene in possession” and “progressive under pressure,” highlighting the influence of Premier League football on his development.
| Stat (2025/26) | Marcos Senesi |
|---|---|
| Appearances (Bournemouth) | 8 |
| Assist | 2 |
| Pass Accuracy | 88 % |
| Clearances per 90 | 4.1 |
source: sofascore match data – 15 October 2025
Those numbers show why Argentina’s staff were keen to test him at international level. His ability to break lines with precise passes and defend proactively makes him an ideal fit for Scaloni’s evolving style.
Analyst verdict – proof that patience pays off
In my view, Senesi’s journey is a blueprint for perseverance. He’s gone from an under-the-radar signing at Bournemouth to a trusted option for the world champions, all through steady improvement.
FootballPlace analyst Liam Rowe adds:
“Scaloni has built a meritocracy — perform well at your club, and you’ll get your shot. Senesi’s debut shows Argentina are looking beyond their established stars. His Bournemouth form has clearly caught the manager’s eye.”
Key insights
- Marcos Senesi made his first start for Argentina in a 1-0 win over Venezuela.
- Lionel Scaloni told him to “play the same way” he does at Bournemouth.
- His calm passing and composure earned praise from Argentine outlets.
- Has become a mainstay under Andoni Iraola in the Premier League.
- Could now challenge for a World Cup 2026 squad role.
What’s next for Senesi and Argentina?
Senesi will return to England ahead of Bournemouth’s Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace on 18 October, eager to build on his breakout international display.
For Argentina, the defender’s successful debut gives Scaloni more depth in a position that has often relied on Romero and Lisandro Martínez. If Senesi continues this form, his place on the plane to North America 2026 looks increasingly secure.
👉 Has Marcos Senesi’s Argentina breakthrough proved the Premier League can shape modern defenders?
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