Marcos Senesi’s patience has paid off. The Bournemouth defender has shared his delight after making his long-awaited return to the Argentina national team, more than three years after his debut — and he insists choosing Argentina over Italy was always “the right thing to do.”
The 28-year-old centre-back featured for a full 90 minutes in Argentina’s recent win over Venezuela, marking only his second senior international appearance. Speaking to El Gráfico, Senesi said he was “very happy” to be back in the fold and determined to make his stay a permanent one.
“I’m trying to enjoy it, take advantage of the opportunity, and contribute my part so I can be here more often,” he said. “I made the decision with my heart and mind. Playing for my country was the right thing to do. It’s what I always dreamed of, and today I achieved it.”
His return comes after a standout spell with Bournemouth, where he’s quietly become one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders. It’s been a long journey for a player who once faced the difficult choice between representing Italy or Argentina — and it appears he has no regrets about following his heart.
From Feyenoord to the Premier League: The Long Road Back
Senesi’s international story began with promise but soon drifted into uncertainty. After making his Argentina debut in June 2022 — a 28-minute cameo in a friendly against Estonia — he was never called up again. Despite strong form at club level, he found himself overlooked by successive Argentina managers.
His move from Feyenoord to Bournemouth in 2022, for a reported €15 million, was seen as a risk at the time. But it proved to be a turning point. Over three seasons, Senesi has racked up close to 100 appearances for the Cherries, adapting to the physical and tactical demands of English football.
Under manager Andoni Iraola, Senesi’s calmness on the ball, aerial strength, and defensive intelligence have stood out. Last season, he often played alongside young defenders Dean Huijsen and Ilya Zabarnyi, helping stabilise Bournemouth’s back line. Following their summer departures, Senesi reclaimed his role as first-choice centre-back — and his consistent form earned him that long-awaited national team recall.
Choosing Argentina Over Italy
The story behind Senesi’s international allegiance is one of loyalty and emotion. Born in Concordia, Argentina, he was eligible to represent Italy through his ancestry. In 2021, reports surfaced that the Italian Football Federation had contacted him about a potential switch.
But Senesi ultimately declined, opting to compete for a spot in one of the most competitive defensive setups in world football — Argentina’s. “It was a personal and emotional decision,” he told El Gráfico. “My heart said Argentina, and I followed that. I always dreamed of playing for the Albiceleste.”
The decision may have delayed his international rise, but his perseverance has now been rewarded. Argentina’s coaching staff reportedly view Senesi as part of the long-term rotation behind first-choice pairing Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez, both of whom are recovering from recent injuries.
“I made the decision with my heart and mind. Playing for my country was the right thing to do.” — Marcos Senesi, via El Gráfico
Senesi’s Bournemouth Form in Numbers
| Stat (2025/26) | Marcos Senesi |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 9 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Tackles Won | 22 |
| Pass Accuracy | 89% |
source: sofascore match data – 11 October 2025
The numbers tell the story of a defender in peak form. Senesi’s distribution out from the back and ability to break lines have become key to Bournemouth’s possession game. His improved leadership has also drawn praise from manager Iraola, who sees him as one of the squad’s “silent captains.”
Analyst Verdict – Patience, Loyalty and Perfect Timing
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Senesi’s return is as much about timing as talent. “He’s matured at Bournemouth,” William explained. “He reads danger better, he’s physically stronger, and his passing range has gone up another level. Argentina have noticed because he’s no longer just solid — he’s influential.”
William added that Senesi’s decision to stay loyal to Argentina rather than switch to Italy shows a mentality that coaches love. “He waited for his chance rather than taking the easy option. That’s character — and it often pays off in international football.”
Key Insights
- Marcos Senesi delighted after Argentina recall following 3-year gap.
- Bournemouth defender rejected Italy to stay loyal to Argentina.
- Strong Premier League form earns him full 90 minutes vs Venezuela.
- Has now made 97 appearances for Bournemouth since 2022.
- Seen as part of Argentina’s defensive depth for the 2026 World Cup cycle.
What’s Next for Senesi and Bournemouth
With Argentina preparing for the next round of World Cup qualifiers later this month, Senesi will be hoping his performance against Venezuela convinces the staff to keep him in contention. Argentina face Puerto Rico on 15 October, offering another chance for him to cement his place in Lionel Scaloni’s plans.
Back in England, Bournemouth face Crystal Palace on 18 October, where Senesi’s leadership will again be vital as Iraola’s side continue their push for a top-half Premier League finish.
👉 Did Marcos Senesi make the right call choosing Argentina over Italy — and could this be the start of a long international run for the Bournemouth star?
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