Javier Mascherano Argentine footballer, former captain of the national team Date of Birth: 08.06.1984 Country: Argentina

1. Biography of Javier Mascherano
2. Early life and career at River Plate
3. International success and move to Europe
4. Career at Barcelona and international achievements

Biography of Javier Mascherano

Javier Mascherano, whose full name is Javier Alejandro Mascherano, is an Argentine footballer and former captain of the national team. He has played for both the Argentine national team and the Spanish club FC Barcelona as a defensive midfielder and central defender.

Early life and career at River Plate

Mascherano was born on June 8, 1984, in San Lorenzo, Argentina. He developed an interest in football from a young age, and as a teenager, he joined the youth teams of the renowned Argentine club River Plate. Interestingly, Mascherano was called up to the national team even before making his official debut for the club. Recognizing his incredible talent, the national team coaches saw him as a valuable asset and believed he could represent his country, regardless of the level he played at club level. After his international debut, Mascherano quickly became a regular in the national team lineup, making approximately 45 appearances over two seasons, but only scoring once.

International success and move to Europe

News of Mascherano's talent spread to European clubs, including Real Madrid and Deportivo de La Coruña. However, River Plate refused to negotiate, claiming that no club could offer his true value. In the following season, due to the team's poor performance, Mascherano was sold to the Brazilian club Corinthians, which made the highest offer. His season in Brazil was highly successful, catching the attention of European scouts, particularly those from English clubs. Consequently, his move to West Ham United in 2006 was not surprising. However, it was shocking when reports surfaced about the financial troubles within the English club and the players reportedly playing almost for free. Eventually, the English club Liverpool signed him on loan, and shortly after, they secured his permanent transfer. During his three seasons at Liverpool, Mascherano made 94 appearances and scored one goal. It was at Liverpool where the Argentine defender displayed his incredible level of play and remarkable tenacity, which quickly became one of his strongest assets.

Career at Barcelona and international achievements

In 2010, Mascherano transferred to the Spanish club Barcelona, where he continues to play. He quickly became a key player and an integral part of the team's midfield, displaying his expertise in reading the game, defending, and initiating attacks. Mascherano's defensive skills were highly regarded, and he was praised for his ability to intercept opponents' attacks and quickly transition into offensive plays.

Mascherano has been part of the Argentine national team since 2003. During his international career, he has participated in major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and has won two Olympic tournaments. At the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, Mascherano reached the final with the national team but lost to Germany in the last minutes of extra time. Despite the defeat, Mascherano is still considered one of the most successful players in the history of Argentine football, and his defensive performances were praised during the tournament.