 |
Juan VeronArgentine footballer, midfielder
Date of Birth: 09.03.1975
Country:  Argentina |
Content:
- Childhood and Early Career
- Career in Europe
- Football in England
- Return to Italy and Estudiantes
- Retirement and Club Presidency
- International Career
- Achievements
Childhood and Early Career
Juan Sebastián Verón was born into a footballing family in La Plata, Argentina. His father, Juan Ramón Verón, was a renowned footballer who spent most of his career with Estudiantes de La Plata. Verón followed in his father's footsteps and joined the club's academy.
Earning the nickname "La Brujita" (the Little Witch), Verón made his professional debut for Estudiantes in 1994 at the age of 19. He quickly became a team leader, showcasing his versatility as a central midfielder and playmaker.
Career in Europe
In 1996, Verón transferred to Boca Juniors, but his stay was brief. That same year, he joined Sampdoria in Italy, a mid-table Serie A club. After two years, he moved to Parma, where he experienced his breakout season.
With Parma, Verón won the UEFA Cup and the Coppa Italia in his only season. His performances earned him a move to Lazio in 1999. Together with Diego Simeone, Sergio Conceição, and Pavel Nedvěd, Verón formed a formidable midfield that helped Lazio secure a Serie A title and a Coppa Italia triumph.
Football in England
In 2001, Verón made a record-breaking £30 million move to Manchester United. Despite a promising start, he struggled to establish himself as a regular starter. In 2003, he moved to Chelsea but sustained a serious injury that sidelined him for six months.
Return to Italy and Estudiantes
Verón returned to Italy with Inter Milan on loan in 2004, where he regained some of his former brilliance. He helped the club win four titles during his time there.
In 2006, Verón returned to his boyhood club Estudiantes. He became the team's undisputed leader, guiding them to the 2009 Copa Libertadores title. He was named South American Footballer of the Year in 2008 and 2009, and Argentine Footballer of the Year in 2006 and 2009.
Retirement and Club Presidency
Verón retired in 2012 and became Estudiantes's sporting director. A year later, he decided to resume his playing career for another year. In 2014, he was elected president of the club with over 70% of the vote.
International Career
Verón made his Argentina debut in 1996. He represented his country at three World Cups and one Copa América, but they were not particularly successful tournaments. He captained the team at the 2002 World Cup.
Achievements
Club:Argentine Primera B Nacional: 1995
Argentine Primera División: 2006 (Apertura), 2010 (Apertura)
Copa Libertadores: 2009
UEFA Cup: 1999
Coppa Italia: 1999, 2000, 2005, 2006
Serie A: 1999/00, 2005/06
Supercoppa Italiana: 2000, 2005
Super UEFA Cup: 1999
Premier League: 2002/03
Individual:
English Premier League Player of the Month: September 2001
South American Footballer of the Year: 2008, 2009
Argentine Footballer of the Year: 2006, 2009
ESM Team of the Season: 2000
FIFA 100
