The 34-year-old has been way off the pace in Russia and almost cost the Albiceleste a place in the last 16 with the penalty conceded against Nigeria
It was an iconic image. Javier Mascherano, bloodied and bruised, somehow symbolised Argentina's agonic victory over Nigeria which saw the team advance in extremis to the second round of the World Cup.
For many, it was further evidence of the heroism of one of the nation's greatest-ever players. Except that Mascherano is not so much of a hero on the pitch any more – and he almost cost the Albiceleste their place in the last 16.