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Gabriel MercadoArgentine footballer, defender
Date of Birth: 18.03.1987
Country:  Argentina |
Content:
- Gabriel Mercado: A Promising Defender
- Flourishing at Estudiantes
- Success with River Plate
- International Recognition
- First Goal for Argentina and Copa América Success
- Joining Sevilla
Gabriel Mercado: A Promising Defender
Humble BeginningsGabriel Mercado, an Argentine defender, began his football journey with Racing Club de Avellaneda. On February 21, 2007, he made his debut in the Argentine Primera Division against San Lorenzo. His first goal for Racing came in a match against Banfield on November 30, 2009.
Flourishing at Estudiantes
In 2010, Estudiantes purchased a 50% stake in Mercado for $800,000. On August 7, he marked his debut for the La Plata-based club against Newell's Old Boys. His first goal for Estudiantes came in a match against his former team, Racing, on September 12. That same year, he helped the club win the Argentine Primera Division title.
Success with River Plate
In 2012, Mercado joined River Plate. His debut for the Buenos Aires giants occurred on August 6 against Belgrano. On September 16, 2013, he scored his first goal for River against Arsenal de Sarandí. In 2014, Mercado won the Argentine Super Cup and claimed his second Primera Division championship.
International Recognition
Mercado's international career began with the Argentine youth team, with whom he triumphed at the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada. On February 11, 2010, he earned his first cap for the senior national team in a friendly against Jamaica.
First Goal for Argentina and Copa América Success
In a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chile on March 25, 2016, Mercado netted his maiden goal for Argentina. Later that year, he claimed the silver medal at the Copa América Centenario in the United States, showcasing his talent in matches against Panama, the United States, Venezuela, and Chile twice.
Joining Sevilla
In the summer of 2016, Mercado made the move to Spanish giants Sevilla, signing a three-year contract. On August 21, he made his La Liga debut against Espanyol. His first goal for Sevilla came in a match against arch-rivals Real Betis.
