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Albano BizzarriArgentine footballer, goalkeeper
Date of Birth: 09.11.1977
Country:  Argentina |
Content:
- Albano Bizarri: Argentinian Football Legend
- Valladolid and Villarreal Success
- Catania and Lazio Interlude
- Lazio and Italian Citizenship
- International Career
- Achievements
Albano Bizarri: Argentinian Football Legend
Early Career and Real Madrid DebutAlbano Bizarri, an Argentinian goalkeeper, began his career at Racing Club (Avellaneda) at the tender age of 17. After impressive performances, he caught the attention of Real Madrid, who were searching for a replacement for Bodo Illgner. Bizarri joined the Spanish giants in 1999, making his debut against Malaga on September 25, 1999.
However, Bizarri's tenure at Real Madrid was short-lived. After a string of costly errors, most notably conceding five goals in a match against Zaragoza, he was replaced by Iker Casillas. Bizarri subsequently became a backup goalkeeper, competing with Illgner for the second goalkeeper spot.
Valladolid and Villarreal Success
In 2000, Bizarri left Real Madrid and signed for Real Valladolid. Initially intended as a backup for Ricardo López, Bizarri seized the opportunity and became a regular starter midway through the season. He spent a total of six seasons with Valladolid, including five as the team's first-choice goalkeeper.
Catania and Lazio Interlude
After Valladolid's relegation in 2006, Bizarri moved to Gimnàstic de Tarragona, who had recently been promoted to La Liga. However, the club was relegated at the end of the season. In 2007, Bizarri crossed the border to Italy and joined Catania as a replacement for first-choice goalkeeper Ciro Polito.
Bizarri initially struggled to establish himself in Catania, but under the guidance of coach Walter Zenga, he became the team's undisputed number one. He departed the club in 2009, after announcing his intention to move on.
Lazio and Italian Citizenship
As a free agent, Bizarri signed for Lazio in 2009, replacing Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. He made his debut in a Europa League match against Red Bull Salzburg, but his playing time was limited in his first season.
International Career
Bizarri was first called up to the Argentinian national team in 1999 and was part of the Copa America squad, although he did not make any appearances.
Achievements
UEFA Champions League: 1999/00 (with Real Madrid)Supercoppa Italiana: 2009 (with Lazio)
Coppa Italia: 2013 (with Lazio)
