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Pablo Aimar
Pablo Aimar
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Pablo César Aimar (born 3 November 1979) is an Argentine former professional footballer and current assistant coach of the Argentina national team. During his career, he played as an attacking midfielder.

Key Information

After starting his senior career at River Plate in 1996, Aimar amassed La Liga totals of 215 games and 32 goals over eight seasons with Valencia and Zaragoza from 2001 to 2008, before spending five years in Portugal with Benfica, winning a combined nine major titles with the three teams.

Aimar earned 52 caps for the Argentina senior team over ten years, representing the nation in two FIFA World Cups and two Copa América tournaments, as well as a FIFA Confederations Cup. He reached the final of the 2005 Confederations Cup and the 2007 Copa América with the Argentine national side.

In 2018, Aimar joined the Argentina national team as an assistant coach. During his tenure, the team won the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa América.

Club career

[edit]

River Plate

[edit]

Aimar's football career begun in earnest when he was offered the chance to play for Estudiantes de Río Cuarto by youth coach Alfie Mercado.[2] He trained with the club's academy three times a week and it was there that he was spotted by River Plate who offered the chance to join their own academy.[2] Aimar's father initially prevented him from joining River as he felt he was too young to be playing football, but relented after manager Daniel Passarella personally asked him to allow his son to play.[2] Having turned down the opportunity to attend medical school to pursue a career in football, Aimar made his debut for River on 11 August 1996 against Colón.[3][4] His first goal for the club came on 20 February 1998 against Rosario Central.[3] Aimar lifted five titles with River between 1996 and 2000, scoring 21 goals and recording 28 assists in 82 league appearances for the club, with his final appearance coming on 17 December 2000 in a 3–2 loss to Lanús.[2][3]

Valencia

[edit]

In January 2001, Spanish La Liga side Valencia signed Aimar from River for a club-record fee of 24 million (£13 million).[2][5] He made his debut for the club the following month against Manchester United and drew praise from three-time Ballon d'Or winner Johan Cruyff for his performance after the match.[2] The following weekend he scored on his La Liga debut, netting in a 2–0 away win over Las Palmas.[6] Aimar immediately became a key figure in Valencia's midfield under Héctor Cúper and helped the club reach the 2001 UEFA Champions League final, where they lost to Bayern Munich on penalties.[5]

In the season which followed, Cúper left for Internazionale, and was replaced by Rafael Benítez. Aimar appeared in a total of 33 league games and scored 4 goals as Valencia were crowned 2001–02 La Liga champions for the first time in 31 years, ending as the club's third-highest goalscorer across all competitions for the season.[2][5] The season thereafter, Aimar jointly topped the Champions League assists table alongside Rui Costa of Milan with five assists to his name, this despite Valencia being eliminated at the quarter-final stage. The club endured further disappointment by ending the league season in fifth place.[2]

"Pablo is the only current footballer I'd pay to watch. He’s been the best player in Argentina over the last couple of years and is even more talented than Riquelme or Saviola.

Diego Maradona in a 2003 interview with World Soccer.[7]

The club's failures were soon forgotten, however, as Valencia completed a league and UEFA Cup double the following season.[5] Despite making more than 30 appearances for the season and playing an influential role in the club's UEFA Cup triumph, Aimar was sidelined for large parts of the season in what was to set an injury-plagued tone to his career.[8]

Following a breakdown between Benítez and Valencia's sporting director Jesús García Pitarch, the former left his position at the club and was replaced by Italian manager Claudio Ranieri for the 2004–05 season. A combination of injury concerns and tactical changes from the manager saw Aimar struggle under Ranieri and found himself being employed as a substitute more frequently than before.[2][5] The Italian departed the club in February and was replaced by Antonio López, who in turn was replaced by Quique Sánchez Flores for the following season.[2] With Valencia in decline, Aimar decided to leave the club at the end of the 2005–06 season having amassed over 200 appearances for the club over the course of five-and-a-half seasons.

Zaragoza

[edit]

In the summer of 2006, Aimar joined fellow top flight club Real Zaragoza on a four-year deal for a reported fee of €11 million, with the club describing the deal as the most important signing in the club's history.[9] At Zaragoza, he was reunited with compatriot and former Valencia teammate Roberto Ayala, who himself had joined the club earlier in the month.[10] Aimar made his league debut on 27 August in a 2–3 away loss against Deportivo de La Coruña and went on to make 32 appearances across all competitions, scoring five goals and helping the club to a sixth-place finish in the league.[2] The following season was a disastrous one for Aimar and Zaragoza as the club, fraught with poor performances and financial mismanagement were relegated from La Liga.[11] Zaragoza's relegation saw Aimar bring an end to his time in Aragon, having made 57 appearances during his two-season stay with the club. During his stint with Zaragoza, he obtained dual-Spanish nationality, having lived in the country since 2001.[12]

Benfica

[edit]
Aimar playing for Benfica in 2012

On 17 July 2008, Aimar signed a four-year contract with Portuguese side Benfica for a fee of €6.5 million.[13] After struggling with injuries initially, he finished the campaign with a string of strong performances and was able to add a Taça da Liga title to his name.[2][14]

In the 2009–10 season, Aimar was reunited with former River Plate teammate Javier Saviola, who was let go by Real Madrid following his own injury struggles.[14] The two combined as double trequartista to support striker Óscar Cardozo alongside fellow Argentine Ángel Di María on the wing.[15] The quartet formed the Primeira Liga's most dangerous attack, with Benfica scoring 78 goals on their way to a league and cup double.[2]

"I have never played with another player who knows where I'm going to be or just lifts his head knowing where I'm going to."

Javier Saviola on his playing relationship with Aimar.[16]

Aimar had become a fan favourite at the Estádio da Luz but injuries continued to plague him, and his game time reduced in the coming seasons. In spite of this, he helped the club to its third and fourth consecutive Taça da Liga titles.[2] On 6 June 2013, after 179 official appearances, 17 goals and 34 assists, Aimar announced he was leaving Benfica and thanked the club for "five wonderful years".[2][17]

Johor Darul Ta'zim

[edit]

On 7 August 2013, Tunku Ismail Ibrahim, the president of Malaysian club Johor Darul Ta'zim and also known as the Crown Prince of Johor, confirmed that Aimar had signed a two-year contract with the team.[18] Upon arrival, he became the highest paid player ever to feature in the Malaysia Super League.[19] He made his debut in the league six months after signing, in a 2–0 win against Perak FA.[20] Prior to making his debut, Aimar had previously played at the Larkin Stadium, home of Johor, before with Argentina in the 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship.[20] He ultimately made 8 appearances for the club and scored two goals before a spate of injuries resulted in him being released on 21 April 2014.[21] Aimar did earn a champions medal for his time with JDT, though, as the club went on to lift the 2014 league title at the end of the season.

Return to River Plate

[edit]

On 5 January 2015, Aimar returned to River Plate for the club's pre-season training, stating that he would sign with the club only if he could deal with the physical demand after having undergone surgeries to his heel and not having played since leaving Johor Darul Ta’zim in April 2014.[22] On 31 May, he played as substitute in a home win against Rosario Central in the Primera División.[23] Aimar announced his retirement on 14 July 2015 after River Plate coach Marcelo Gallardo informed him that he was not included in the club's squad for the semi-final stage of the Copa Libertadores. Gallardo said Aimar was "suffering" and had struggled with injuries through the pre-season.[24]

Estudiantes de Río Cuarto

[edit]

On 16 January 2018, Aimar played in a friendly match for his youth club Estudiantes de Río Cuarto. After the match, he announced that he would be joining the squad ahead of the Copa Argentina fixture against Sportivo Belgrano on 23 January, in order to fulfill his wish of making an official appearance for the club where he began and spent eight years.[25]

The Copa Argentina match took place at Estudiantes' home stadium Estadio Ciudad de Río Cuarto.[26] Aimar was picked in the starting line up and wore the captain's armband, coming close to opening the score with a shot that was parried by the goalkeeper, before getting subbed off in the 50th minute.[27] The match ended in a goalless draw, which was not enough to see Estudiantes through the next round after a 2–1 loss in the first leg.[28] His brother Andrés was also in the line-up of Estudiantes. Afterwards, Aimar confirmed that he had no intention of making a definitive comeback and that this was indeed his farewell match from football.[29]

International career

[edit]

Aimar first represented Argentina at youth levels. Along with future senior team players Esteban Cambiasso and Juan Román Riquelme he won the 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship and went on to earn 52 senior caps following his debut in 1999, scoring eight international goals in total.[2][30] He represented Argentina at the 1999 and 2007 editions of the Copa América, at the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups, and at the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup.

In the 2002 World Cup, for which he was picked ahead of Riquelme, Aimar appeared against England, subbing in for Juan Sebastián Verón in the 1–0 loss,[31] which led coach Marcelo Bielsa to start him against Sweden at the latter's expense.

Aimar scored the last goal of the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup during Argentina's 4–1 loss in the final to champions Brazil.[32] He also appeared with the national side in the 2007 Copa América, scoring a goal in a 4–1 win against the United States in his team's opening group match of the competition;[33] Argentina went on to reach the final of the tournament, losing out to Brazil once again, this time 0–3, with Aimar coming on as a second-half substitute for Cambiasso.[34][35]

After several months in the sidelines, Aimar received another international callup in October 2009, for decisive 2010 World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Uruguay. In the match against the former he repaid the faith placed in him by coach Diego Maradona, assisting Gonzalo Higuaín for Argentina's opener with a through ball, in an eventual 2–1 win.

Style of play

[edit]

An elegant, technically gifted and creative attacking midfielder with a small frame, Aimar was a right-footed player with a vast array of skills and an eye for goal.[36][37][38][39][40] He excelled in a free role as an advanced playmaker where he was best able to utilise his dribbling skills, vision and passing ability to create chances for teammates and orchestrate attacking moves.[37][38] Moreover, he was a free kick specialist.[41] His skills and playing style saw him earn comparisons with Diego Maradona in his youth.[42] Due to his talent and flamboyance, he was given the nicknames El Payaso (the clown) and El Mago (the wizard) throughout his career.[37][43] As a youth, compatriot Lionel Messi stated in 2002 that Aimar was one of his biggest influences as a player.[37][44] In addition to his playing ability, Aimar also drew praise for his leadership qualities; however, despite his talent, he struggled with injuries throughout his career.[39]

Coaching career

[edit]

Aimar was appointed as coach of the Argentina national under-17 football team in July 2017.[45] His under-17 team won the South American U-17 Championship in 2019.[46] He was part of the Argentina managerial team who won the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Personal life

[edit]

Aimar's younger brother, Andrés, was also a professional footballer and a midfielder. He represented several teams in his country – starting his career at River Plate – also playing for a few months in Israel.[47] In October 2022 Aimar's mother died.[48]

Career statistics

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Club

[edit]
Sources:[49][50][51]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League Cup[nb 1] Continental[nb 2] Other[nb 3] Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
River Plate 1995–96 Argentine Primera División 1 0 1 0
1996–97 0 0
1997–98 16 4 7 2 23 6
1998–99 18 2 9 1 27 3
1999–00 33 13 8 3 41 16
2000–01 15 4 5 1 20 5
Total 83 23 0 0 29 7 0 0 112 30
Valencia 2000–01 La Liga 10 2 8 0 18 2
2001–02 33 4 1 0 6 2 40 6
2002–03 31 8 4[nb 4] 0 11 3 46 11
2003–04 25 4 5 0 8 0 38 4
2004–05 31 4 2[nb 5] 0 6 2 39 6
2005–06 32 5 2 0 1 0 35 5
Total 162 27 13 0 40 7 216 34
Zaragoza 2006–07 La Liga 31 5 1 0 32 5
2007–08 22 0 2 0 1 0 25 0
Total 53 5 3 0 1 0 57 5
Benfica 2008–09 Primeira Liga 22 1 2 0 1 0 4 1 29 2
2009–10 25 4 1 0 11 1 4 0 41 5
2010–11 23 5 6 1 12 1 5[nb 6] 0 46 7
2011–12 24 2 2 0 12 1 4 0 42 3
2012–13 13 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 21 0
Total 107 12 14 1 39 3 18 1 179 17
Johor Darul Ta'zim 2014 Malaysia Super League 8 2 0 0 8 2
Total 8 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 2
River Plate 2015 Argentine Primera División 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0
Estudiantes Río Cuarto 2017–18 Torneo Federal A 1 0 1 0
Career total 413 67 32 1 101 17 18 1 566 86

International

[edit]
Argentina
Year Apps Goals
1999 2 0
2000 5 1
2001 8 0
2002 6 1
2003 9 4
2004 2 0
2005 6 1
2006 6 0
2007 7 1
2009 1 0
Total 52 8

International goals

[edit]
Argentina score listed first, score column indicates score after each Aimar goal.
# Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1. 16 August 2000 Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina  Paraguay 1–1 1–1 2002 World Cup qualification
2. 27 March 2002 Geneva, Switzerland  Cameroon 2–1 2–2 Friendly
3. 30 April 2003 June 11 Stadium, Tripoli, Libya  Libya 3–1 3–1
4. 6 September 2003 Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina  Chile 2–0 2–2 2006 World Cup qualification
5. 9 September 2003 Estadio Olímpico, Caracas, Venezuela  Venezuela 1–0 3–0
6. 15 November 2003 Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina  Bolivia 3–0 3–0
7. 29 June 2005 Waldstadion, Frankfurt, Germany  Brazil 1–4 1–4 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup
8. 28 June 2007 José Pachencho Romero, Maracaibo, Venezuela  United States 3–1 4–1 2007 Copa América

Managerial

[edit]
As of 27 October 2022
Managerial record by team and tenure
Team From To Record
G W D L GF GA GD Win %
Argentina U-17 13 July 2017 Present 20 13 3 4 36 21 +15 065.00
Total 20 13 3 4 36 21 +15 065.00

Honours

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Player

[edit]

River Plate[3]

Valencia

Benfica

Johor Darul Ta’zim

Argentina U17

Argentina U20

Argentina

Individual

Managerial

[edit]

Argentina (as assistant manager)

Argentina U17

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Pablo César Aimar is an Argentine former professional footballer who primarily played as an attacking midfielder, celebrated for his technical skill, close control, and creative playmaking ability, and currently serves as an assistant coach for the Argentina national team under head coach . Born on 3 November 1979 in Province, Argentina, Aimar began his professional career with River Plate in 1996, emerging as a key talent in Argentine football. During his initial stint with the club from 1996 to 2000, he made 82 appearances, scoring 21 goals and providing 28 assists, and contributed to major successes including the . In 2001, he joined for a club-record transfer fee of €24 million, where he spent five seasons, appearing in 216 matches and scoring 34 goals while helping the team secure two titles (2002 and 2004), the 2004 UEFA Cup, and the . His time at Valencia established him as a pivotal figure in one of the club's most successful eras under managers and . Aimar's European career continued with from 2006 to 2008, where he made 78 appearances and scored 15 goals in , before moving to Benfica in 2008 for €11 million. At Benfica, he enjoyed a five-year spell, playing 179 matches and scoring 17 goals, and won the in 2010 along with four titles (2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012), contributing to some of the club's most entertaining football in . In 2013, he briefly joined Malaysian club Johor Darul Ta'zim, winning the in 2014, before returning to River Plate for a second spell from 2014 to 2015, where he added 28 appearances and 1 goal before retiring at age 35. Over his club career, Aimar amassed approximately 610 appearances and 91 goals across all competitions. Internationally, Aimar represented from 1999 to 2012, earning 52 caps and scoring 8 goals. He featured in the 2002 and 2010 World Cups, as well as the 2004 and 2007 Copa Américas, though the team did not win major senior titles during his tenure. As a youth international, he was instrumental in 's victory at the 1997 , earning the Bronze Ball award, and also won the 1997 South American U-20 Championship. Since retiring, Aimar has focused on coaching, initially leading Argentina's under-17 and under-20 teams from 2016, before joining Scaloni's staff for the senior team in 2018. In this role, he has been part of the coaching team that guided Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the 2024 Copa América, among other achievements.

Early life

Birth and family background

Pablo César Aimar was born on 3 November 1979 in Río Cuarto, a city in . His full name includes the middle name César, given as a tribute to , the renowned Argentine coach who led the national team to victory in the . Aimar's family background was deeply rooted in football, with his father, Ricardo Aimar, having been a professional player who competed for clubs including and Belgrano, and his younger brother, Andrés Aimar, who also became a professional footballer. Growing up in this football-oriented household in the modest, small-town environment of Río Cuarto provided young Pablo with constant encouragement and immersion in the sport from an early age. His early exposure to football came through family influences and participation in local clubs, such as , where he began honing his skills amid the supportive community atmosphere of his hometown. This foundational setting in Río Cuarto shaped Aimar's initial passion for the game, laying the groundwork for his later development.

Youth development

Aimar began his organized football training in his hometown of Río Cuarto, joining the youth academy of local club as a pre-teen, where he developed his foundational skills in and ball control. In 1993, at the age of 13, he was scouted and signed directly by River Plate's renowned youth academy without requiring a , a testament to the early recognition of his potential. Within River Plate's youth setup, Aimar rapidly progressed through the age groups, impressing coaches with his elegant playmaking, close control, and ability to dictate tempo in midfield. By 1995, he had earned a spot in the club's , where his standout performances—marked by creative assists and goals in internal matches—drew attention from senior staff, leading to his inclusion in first-team training sessions under manager . Aimar's breakthrough came on 11 August 1996, when the 16-year-old made his professional debut for River Plate's senior team in a Primera División match against Colón, entering as a substitute and displaying poise beyond his years in limited minutes.

Club career

River Plate (initial spell)

Pablo Aimar progressed through the River Plate youth academy before making his professional debut for the senior team on 11 August 1996, at the age of 16, in a 3-2 defeat to Colón. He quickly established himself as a promising attacking , renowned for his technical skill, ability, and playmaking vision, often drawing comparisons to Argentine legends like due to his low center of gravity and creativity on the ball. During his initial tenure at River Plate from 1996 to 2001, Aimar became a cornerstone of the midfield, appearing in 101 matches across all competitions and contributing 25 goals and 27 assists. In league play alone, he featured in 82 games, scoring 21 goals that underscored his growing influence in the . His contributions were instrumental in River Plate securing four domestic league titles: the 1996 Apertura, 1997 Apertura, 1997 Clausura, and 1999 Apertura. These successes highlighted Aimar's role in a dominant era for the club under coaches like , where his ability to unlock defenses with precise passes and opportunistic finishes proved vital. He also gained international exposure with 3 appearances in the , where River reached the quarterfinals. Aimar's breakthrough was marked by standout performances in high-stakes fixtures, particularly the intense rivalries against , where he helped River secure several victories that intensified the historic derby. His international exposure came through the , including River's 2000 campaign that reached the semifinals and the 2001 quarterfinals against , where Aimar's midfield orchestration provided crucial moments in continental competition. These experiences solidified his reputation as one of Argentina's most exciting young talents before his move to .

Valencia

In January 2001, Valencia signed Pablo Aimar from River Plate for a club-record fee of €24 million, marking a significant in the 21-year-old Argentine to bolster their midfield during a period of resurgence under manager . Aimar made his debut on 14 February 2001 against Racing Santander, quickly integrating into the squad and contributing to Valencia's competitive edge in . Over his time at the club from 2001 to 2006, he amassed 215 appearances in the Spanish top flight, scoring 31 goals and providing 43 assists, figures that underscored his role as a creative force in the team's attack. Aimar's tenure coincided with Valencia's golden era, where he played a pivotal role in securing major honors, including the 2001–02 La Liga title—the club's first in 31 years—and the 2003–04 double of La Liga and the UEFA Cup under Rafael Benítez, as well as the 2004 UEFA Super Cup. In the 2001–02 season, he featured in 33 league matches and netted four goals, helping Valencia edge out competitors through his vision and precise passing that unlocked defenses. His contributions were key throughout the 2003–04 UEFA Cup campaign, where his technical prowess and ability to dictate tempo helped lead the team to the final victory over Marseille. During this period, Aimar formed effective partnerships in midfield, notably with in the latter's final months at in early 2001, where their combined creativity added flair to the team's transitions from defense to attack. He also linked seamlessly with players like and , enhancing 's balanced playstyle. Aimar's rivalry in matches against Real Madrid and highlighted his big-game mentality; he scored a memorable equalizer against Real Madrid in a 1–1 draw in 2005 and contributed to a 4–1 thrashing of in 2004 with a goal and key assists, performances that intensified the competitive narrative of challenging Spain's giants.

Real Zaragoza

In July 2006, Pablo Aimar transferred from Valencia to Real Zaragoza on a four-year contract for a reported fee of €11 million, marking a shift from a title-contending side to an ambitious mid-table club aiming to build on their attacking potential. During his stint from 2006 to 2008, Aimar made 78 appearances in La Liga, scoring 15 goals, though his contributions were hampered by persistent injuries and the team's fluctuating form. In his debut season (2006–07), he featured in 26 league matches, netting 4 goals overall (including cups) and providing 11 assists, helping Zaragoza secure a sixth-place finish and UEFA Cup qualification. A notable highlight was his assist for Diego Milito's penalty in a 2–2 draw against Real Madrid in June 2007, securing a crucial point late in the campaign. Aimar faced significant challenges adapting to Zaragoza's less dominant style compared to Valencia's high-pressing expectations, compounded by injuries that limited his consistency. A left in January 2007 sidelined him for a month during a strong team run, while pelvic surgery in January 2008 kept him out for three months amid the club's relegation battle. These setbacks restricted him to just 15 league starts in 2007–08, as Zaragoza finished 18th and dropped to the . Despite the difficulties, Aimar contributed to Zaragoza's campaign, where they advanced to the quarter-finals before elimination by ; he appeared in 2 cup matches that season, scoring 1 goal. In the 2007–08 edition, limited by injury, he played 2 matches as the team exited in the round of 16 against .

Benfica

Pablo Aimar joined on 17 July 2008, transferring from for a fee of €11 million and signing a four-year contract under manager , his former coach at . Despite initial injury setbacks, Aimar quickly became a central figure in Benfica's midfield, known for his vision and creativity in linking play. Over his five seasons with Benfica from 2008 to 2013, Aimar made 179 appearances across all competitions and scored 17 goals, establishing himself as one of the team's most influential players. His contributions were pivotal in Benfica's domestic success, including winning the title in the 2009–10 season, ending a five-year drought for the club. Aimar also played a key role in securing four consecutive titles from 2008–09 to 2011–12, showcasing his ability to deliver in high-stakes knockout formats. In his later years at the club, Aimar assumed greater leadership responsibilities, guiding the squad through transitional periods and mentoring emerging talents like , who credited Aimar's advice for his development during their time together in . His elegant playmaking and composure under pressure helped foster a cohesive team dynamic, contributing to Benfica's entertaining style that reached the final in 2013.

Johor Darul Ta'zim

In August 2013, following a limited role at Benfica during the 2012–13 season, Pablo Aimar joined Johor Darul Ta'zim on a free transfer, signing a two-year contract with an option for extension. The move represented a significant departure to , where Aimar was positioned as the club's marquee signing to boost its profile and competitiveness in the Malaysian Super League, earning a reported US$2.4 million annually—the highest salary in the league at the time. Inspired by the ambitious vision of club president , the Crown Prince of , Aimar was drawn to the project, which included plans for youth academies where he would contribute to player development alongside his on-field duties. Aimar's spell began promisingly with the 2014 Malaysian Super League season in January, as he adapted to the new environment by leveraging fond memories of Johor Baru from the hosted there. In his brief tenure, he made eight appearances and scored two goals, showcasing his technical skill and creativity in midfield despite the challenges of a different football culture and climate. His contributions helped Johor Darul Ta'zim secure the 2014 title, earning him a champions' medal as part of the squad that dominated domestically. However, recurring injuries, including heel and thigh issues, hampered his integration and limited his impact, leading to his release on 21 April 2014 after failing to recover fully. Despite the short duration, Aimar's presence elevated the club's global visibility and inspired local players, aligning with Darul Ta'zim's strategy to attract high-profile talent for long-term growth.

River Plate (return)

After leaving Johor Darul Ta'zim, Aimar rejoined River Plate for pre-season training on 5 January 2015, expressing his intent to sign a contract only if he could overcome his injury issues and contribute effectively. He officially signed a short-term deal in May 2015, fulfilling a promise made years earlier to return to his boyhood club. His comeback debut came on 31 May 2015 in a Primera División match against , where he entered as a substitute for the final 15 minutes in a 2–0 victory. Injuries continued to plague Aimar, restricting him to just one additional appearance. On 4 June 2015, he played 30 minutes in a third-round win over CA Liniers. Persistent knee problems prevented further involvement, including omission from the semi-final squad against . Despite his limited playing time, Aimar's return as a club legend provided a significant boost to the River Plate squad during their successful 2015 campaign, which included winning the and Primera División titles. His presence in training sessions helped foster a connection with younger players, drawing on his experience to inspire the team's emerging talents amid the high expectations of the season. On 14 July 2015, Aimar announced his retirement at age 35, citing ongoing physical struggles, in an emotional farewell that highlighted his enduring bond with the club.

Estudiantes de Río Cuarto

In early 2018, at the age of 38, Pablo Aimar made a symbolic return to his boyhood club, , nearly three years after retiring from professional football with River Plate. This brief stint marked a poignant homecoming to the club in his hometown where he first developed his skills as a youth player. Aimar's participation began on 16 January 2018 with a friendly match against local side de Río Cuarto, where he featured briefly to the delight of local fans. He then made his official appearance for the club in the first-round match against Sportivo Belgrano de on 23 January 2018, entering as a substitute in the 70th minute during a goalless that advanced Estudiantes on aggregate. These limited minutes underscored his age and physical constraints, prioritizing ceremonial involvement over competitive demands. The episodes represented a full-circle conclusion to Aimar's illustrious career, allowing him to bid farewell on his own terms in Río Cuarto, the cradle of his footballing journey. Over 12,000 spectators attended the fixture, including former coach , highlighting the emotional resonance of Aimar's return to his roots. Reflecting afterward, Aimar stated, "The end is where I started," encapsulating the personal closure this chapter provided.

International career

Youth international appearances

Aimar began his youth international career with Argentina's under-17 team at the in , where he made six appearances and scored two goals, helping the team finish third after reaching the semi-finals. His performances earned him selection for the under-20 squad under coach , who would become a pivotal figure in Argentine youth football. In 1997, Aimar featured prominently in the South American U-20 Championship in , contributing to 's title win as one of the tournament's standout midfielders alongside . Later that year, he played all seven matches at the World Youth Championship in , scoring one goal and providing creative impetus in midfield as secured the title with a 2-1 final victory over . Aimar's vision and were highlighted as key to the team's success, with noting the duo of Aimar and Riquelme as central to their dominant campaign, which included just one loss. Aimar's youth international profile peaked at the in , where he was included as an overage player in the under-23 squad. He started six matches and made one substitute appearance, scoring three goals—including in the group stage against and in the semi-final against —and registering two assists during Argentina's unbeaten run to the gold medal, defeating 1-0 in the final. His technical skill and playmaking were instrumental in a team featuring emerging talents like and , marking Argentina's first Olympic football gold since 1952.

Senior international career

Aimar made his debut for the Argentina senior national team on 4 August 1999, coming on as a substitute in a 2–0 friendly victory over at the Estadio Monumental in . Under coach , who had guided him through the youth ranks, Aimar quickly established himself as a key creative force in midfield, contributing vision and technical skill to the team's attacking play during Bielsa's tenure from 1998 to 2004. Over his international career, he earned 52 caps between 1999 and 2012, often deployed as the central hub linking defense to attack with his precise passing and ability. Aimar also represented Argentina at the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup in Germany, where he played in all five matches, scored two goals—including the consolation goal in the 4–1 final loss to Brazil—and contributed to the team's runner-up finish. Aimar featured in Argentina's 2002 FIFA World Cup campaign in South Korea and Japan, where he appeared in all three group stage matches as the team exited in the first round following a 1–0 loss to England and a 1–1 draw with Sweden. He also participated in the 2004 Copa América in Peru, starting in several games as Argentina secured third place with a 2–1 semifinal defeat to Brazil and a 1–0 third-place win over Uruguay. Transitioning to José Pékerman's management in 2004, Aimar continued as the creative linchpin, benefiting from Pékerman's emphasis on youth integration and tactical fluidity, which aligned with his playmaking strengths. In the in , Aimar was part of the squad but limited by an ankle injury sustained during the round of 16 against , managing only three appearances in the group stage and round of 16 as reached the quarterfinals before a loss to hosts . He returned for the in , again serving as a central in Pékerman's setup and helping to after a 3–0 final loss to and a 2–1 third-place victory over . Aimar was included in the squad for the in but did not feature in any matches as reached the quarter-finals. Aimar's final international appearance came on 9 June 2012 in a 4–3 friendly win over in , where he scored Argentina's fourth goal, marking the end of his senior career with the Albiceleste after sporadic call-ups amid club commitments and injuries.

Style of play and legacy

Playing attributes

Pablo Aimar operated primarily as a creative number 10, serving as an attacking tasked with linking play, dictating , and unlocking defenses through inventive ball distribution. His tactical role emphasized operating in the final third, where he could exploit spaces behind the midfield line to initiate attacks, often receiving the ball on the half-turn to evade pressure. This positioning allowed him to function as the fulcrum of his teams' offensive strategies, prioritizing creativity over broader midfield duties. Aimar's technical prowess was defined by exceptional and close control, enabling him to navigate tight spaces with and finesse, often drawing comparisons to for his elegant, low-center-of-gravity style. Standing at 1.70 meters with a slight, build, he possessed the quick feet and balance necessary for rapid changes of direction and shielding the ball under duress, earning him the nickname "El Payaso" (The Clown) due to his cheerful demeanor and constant smiling. His vision and short passing were equally elite, allowing him to thread precise through-balls and execute one-touch combinations that dismantled organized defenses, while his proficiency with free-kicks added another dimension, frequently curling shots over walls with accuracy and swerve. Despite these strengths, Aimar's game had notable limitations, particularly in defensive contributions, where he rarely tracked back or engaged in pressing, focusing instead on offensive transitions. His career was also hampered by injury proneness, with recurring issues disrupting his consistency and availability at key stages. These physical vulnerabilities, combined with his slight frame, occasionally left him susceptible in physical duels, though his technical superiority often compensated in possession-based scenarios.

Influence and reception

Pablo Aimar garnered profound admiration from football icons, most notably , who declared him the only contemporary player he would pay to watch, praising his exceptional talent and creativity. , another Argentine legend, has frequently named Aimar as his primary idol after Maradona, crediting him for shaping his own development as a and underscoring Aimar's enduring influence on Argentina's tradition of inventive, No. 10 midfielders who prioritize vision and flair over physicality. This reverence highlights Aimar's role in perpetuating a lineage of skillful Argentine creators, blending technical mastery with an innate joy for the game. Media outlets affectionately dubbed Aimar "El Payaso" (The Clown), a nickname reflecting his playful demeanor and entertaining style on the pitch, which often featured whimsical yet effective techniques that delighted spectators. Upon announcing his retirement in July 2015 at age 35, following injury-plagued stints in , Aimar was met with widespread tributes celebrating his career; Messi, in particular, shared an emotional message on , stating, "He retires as a great, he is one of my idols. Pablo Aimar, I wish you all the best in your next phase of your life. Thank you for everything that you gave us to enjoy with your magic," encapsulating the personal impact Aimar had on emerging talents. Beyond his playing days, Aimar's legacy lies in inspiring a new wave of playmakers throughout and , where his elegant ball control, precise passing, and ability to unlock defenses became a blueprint for aspiring midfield artists seeking to infuse matches with creativity and unpredictability. His influence extended to youth academies and professional setups, fostering a generation that valued technical finesse in an increasingly athletic era of the sport.

Coaching career

Early coaching roles

After retiring from professional football in 2015, Pablo Aimar began his coaching career with the (AFA). In 2017, he took charge of the under-15 national team, offered the position by then-head coach . He drew on his experience as a former youth international to guide the squad, emphasizing technical development and enjoyment of the game. Aimar was appointed head coach of the Argentina under-17 national team in July 2017, a position he held until December 2022. Under his leadership, the team qualified for major tournaments and showcased a playing style rooted in possession and creativity, influenced by his own career under coaches like and . He continued in this role alongside his duties with the senior national team. One of the highlights of Aimar's tenure came in 2019, when his under-17 side won the in , defeating 1–0 in the final. The victory marked Argentina's fifth title in the competition and earned qualification for the , where the team reached the round of 16. Aimar's team demonstrated resilience after an early stumble against .

Argentina national team assistant

In August 2018, Pablo Aimar joined the coaching staff of the as an assistant manager to head coach , transitioning from his role with the under-17 squad while continuing it until 2022. This appointment came shortly after the named Scaloni and Aimar as interim managers for upcoming friendlies, marking the beginning of their long-term collaboration. Under Scaloni's leadership with Aimar on the staff, Argentina secured major international triumphs, including the title, the 2022 (Finalissima), the , and the . These victories highlighted the coaching team's emphasis on tactical flexibility and collective performance, with Aimar contributing to sessions and strategies as part of the core group alongside assistants like . Aimar's responsibilities have focused on player development and integrating younger talents into the senior setup, drawing from his youth coaching experience where he prioritized technical skills and academic balance. His contract as assistant manager extends through December 31, 2026, covering the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and beyond.

Personal life

Family

Pablo Aimar has been married to Ana Belén Ordóñez since 2001, with whom he shares a long-term relationship that began in their youth in Río Cuarto, Argentina. The couple has four children: son Agustín (born 2004 in Valencia, Spain) and daughters Sara (born 2006 in Valencia), Juana (born around 2010 in Lisbon, Portugal), and Eva (born around 2013 in Lisbon). Aimar's family provided crucial support during his career transitions from Argentina to Europe, accompanying him to clubs like and , where their children were born amid his professional commitments. Known for maintaining a private , Aimar has occasionally discussed the challenges of work-life balance in interviews, emphasizing the role of his family in sustaining him through frequent relocations and the demands of professional football.

Philanthropy and beliefs

Aimar is known for his strong religious beliefs, with playing a central role in his . He has publicly affirmed his commitment to , stating that no matter the hardships he faces, he will not lose his . has been a source of support for him during challenging periods, particularly through practices like nightly prayers of gratitude. Throughout his career and post-retirement, Aimar has engaged in various efforts, often centered on supporting youth and underprivileged communities through football. In 2017, he participated in the "Shoot for Love" charity event in alongside , where they donated U-20 World Cup tickets to individuals in need, promoting access to sports for disadvantaged youth. Similarly, in 2013, Aimar joined and other stars in a charity soccer match in aimed at raising funds to help children grow and develop through educational and sporting initiatives. Aimar has also been actively involved with Fundación River Plate, contributing to solidary events that support social causes. In 2025, he reunited with former teammates and others for an event to fund the construction of a football school, emphasizing and access to sports. Additionally, Aimar has been linked to initiatives in Córdoba province, including a 2022 community tribute where a representative delivered a of the to honor in Calchín, fostering pride and inspiration among youth. In his role with the (AFA), Aimar's work in youth development programs extends beyond coaching to social initiatives, promoting football as a tool for education, inclusion, and personal growth in underserved areas, drawing from his own experiences in Río Cuarto.

Career statistics

Club statistics

Pablo Aimar's club career spanned multiple leagues and continents, with a total of 562 appearances, 82 goals, and 123 assists across all competitions. Recurring injuries, including chronic issues, significantly impacted his availability, particularly after age 30, leading to reduced minutes and an early retirement at 35. The following table summarizes his statistics by club, encompassing domestic leagues, cups, and continental tournaments:
ClubYears ActiveAppearancesGoalsAssists
River Plate1996–2000, 20151012527
2001–20062163350
2006–20085754
2008–20131791742
Johor Darul Ta'zim2013–2014820
2018100
Total56282123
At River Plate, Aimar's early career featured prominently in the and , with 85 league appearances and 21 goals in his initial stint (1996–2000), contributing to multiple titles before injuries began to surface. His time at included 154 matches (29 goals), 34 games (4 goals), and domestic cup outings, peaking in the 2002–03 season with 35 total appearances and 7 goals across competitions. In with , he recorded 54 appearances and 5 goals over two seasons, often limited by fitness concerns. At Benfica, Aimar excelled in the (127 appearances, 11 goals) and Europa League (31 appearances, 3 goals), with a standout 2010–11 campaign yielding 40 total games, 6 goals, and 12 assists despite injury interruptions. His brief spell at Johor Darul Ta'zim involved 5 matches and 3 cup games, scoring twice amid ongoing recovery efforts. Aimar made one farewell appearance for in 2018.

International statistics

Pablo Aimar earned 52 caps for the senior national team between 1999 and 2012, during which he scored 8 goals. His international debut came on 9 June 1999 in a 4–1 friendly win against . Aimar featured in major tournaments, including the 2002 and 2006 s (3 appearances each, no goals), the 2004 and 2007 Copa Américas (5 appearances total, 1 goal), and various World Cup qualifiers. At youth level, Aimar was instrumental in Argentina's 1997 victory, appearing in 7 matches and scoring 3 goals, including against , , and in the final against . Aimar's international goals for Argentina are detailed below:
No.DateOpponentScoreResultCompetitionVenue
116 August 20002–12–1FriendlyRiver Plate Stadium, ,
22 20012–03–0River Plate Stadium, ,
36 October 20012–15–1, ,
46 September 20031–03–0Estadio Hernando Siles, ,
59 September 20032–03–0Estadio Olímpico, ,
618 August 20041–02–1Friendly, ,
79 February 20051–02–1Friendly, ,
88 October 20113–04–1Estadio Nacional, Santiago,

Managerial statistics

Aimar's coaching record at the youth level demonstrates a strong performance, particularly with the under-17 national team. From 2017 to 2020, he managed 35 matches, securing 22 wins, 9 draws, and 4 losses, which equated to a win percentage of approximately 63%. This tenure culminated in a notable achievement: victory in the , where the team went unbeaten in the tournament, defeating 1-0 in the final. As an assistant coach for the senior national team under from 2018 to present, Aimar has contributed to approximately 92 matches as of November 2025, maintaining a high win rate of over 70%. This period included major successes, such as an undefeated run in the (7 wins in 7 matches), the , the , the title, and consistent performances in qualifiers. The overall team record during Scaloni's era, with Aimar on the staff, stood at 92 matches, 65 wins, 18 draws, and 9 losses as of November 2025, yielding a 71% win percentage and numerous clean sheets. The following table summarizes key aspects of Aimar's managerial involvements:
RolePeriodCompetitionsMatchesWinsDrawsLossesWin %Notable Results
Argentina U17 Head Coach2017–2020, Friendlies, Qualifiers35229463%Won (5 wins, 1 draw in tournament)
Argentina Senior Assistant Coach2018–present, Copa América, Qualifiers, Friendlies926518971%2022 winners (7-0-0); 2021 Copa América winners; 2024 Copa América winners (6-2-0)
These statistics highlight Aimar's influence on team success across age groups, emphasizing defensive solidity and tournament prowess.

Honours

As a player

Pablo Aimar won numerous team and individual honors throughout his playing career, contributing to successes at club and international levels with his creative playmaking. His achievements span multiple leagues in and Europe, highlighting his role in title-winning campaigns for River Plate, , and Benfica, as well as youth successes with .

Club

  • River Plate (1996–2000): 5 × Argentine Primera División (1996 Apertura, 1997 Clausura, 1997 Apertura, 1999 Apertura, 2000 Clausura); 1 × (1996); 1 × Supercopa Sudamericana (1997). Aimar was a key figure in these victories, scoring 21 goals in 82 league appearances.
  • Valencia (2001–2006): 2 × (2001–02, 2003–04); 1 × UEFA Cup (2003–04); 1 × (2004). These triumphs marked Valencia's resurgence, with Aimar central to their attacking play.
  • Benfica (2008–2013): 1 × (2009–10); 4 × (2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2011–12). Aimar played a pivotal role in Benfica's domestic dominance during this period, appearing in 179 matches.
  • Johor Darul Ta'zim (2013–2014): 1 × (2013–14).

International

  • South American U-20 Championship: 1997 (with ).
  • FIFA U-20 World Cup: 1997 (with ). Aimar helped secure the title in a squad featuring future stars like Juan Román Riquelme.
  • Olympic silver medal: 2004 (with ). He was part of the squad that reached the final at the Games.

Individual

  • FIFA U-20 World Cup Bronze Ball: 1997. Awarded for his outstanding performance in the tournament.
  • South American Team of the Year: 1999, 2000. Recognized by for his contributions at River Plate.
  • UEFA Champions League top assist provider: 2002–03 (with ). Led the competition with his creative output.

As a coach

Aimar began his coaching career in 2017 as of the Argentina national under-17 team, where he guided the squad to victory in the held in , securing Argentina's fourth title in the tournament after defeating 1–0 in the decisive hexagonal final match. In 2018, Aimar transitioned to the senior national team as an assistant coach under , a role he has held continuously, contributing to the tactical preparation and player development within the staff alongside figures like and . As part of this setup, Aimar helped orchestrate Argentina's triumph, ending a 28-year continental drought with a 1–0 final win over at the Maracanã. The staff's success continued with the , a 3–0 victory against at , marking the first edition of the intercontinental trophy between and champions. Later that year, Aimar was integral to Argentina's campaign in , where the team claimed the title with a dramatic win over in the final, fulfilling a long national aspiration. In 2024, the group repeated as Copa América champions, defeating 1–0 in extra time during the final in , with Aimar actively involved in training sessions and match preparations. Aimar's contributions as part of Scaloni's staff earned collective recognition, including Scaloni's 2022 IFFHS Men's National Team Coach of the Year award, highlighting the group's innovative approach blending youth development with senior performance. By November 2025, the team under this staff had topped the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with an unbeaten record, securing direct qualification and extending a dominant era.

References

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