Recent from talks
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Pablo Aimar
View on Wikipedia
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.
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]
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."
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
[edit]Club
[edit]| 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 | ||
- ^ Includes the Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España, Taça de Portugal, and Copa Argentina
- ^ Includes the Copa Libertadores, Supercopa Sudamericana, Copa Mercosur, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and UEFA Intertoto Cup
- ^ Includes the Taça da Liga, and Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira
- ^ Includes two appearances in the Supercopa de España
- ^ Includes one appearance in the Supercopa de España
- ^ Includes one appearance in the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira
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 | 1–1 | 1–1 | 2002 World Cup qualification | |
| 2. | 27 March 2002 | Geneva, Switzerland | 2–1 | 2–2 | Friendly | |
| 3. | 30 April 2003 | June 11 Stadium, Tripoli, Libya | 3–1 | 3–1 | ||
| 4. | 6 September 2003 | Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina | 2–0 | 2–2 | 2006 World Cup qualification | |
| 5. | 9 September 2003 | Estadio Olímpico, Caracas, Venezuela | 1–0 | 3–0 | ||
| 6. | 15 November 2003 | Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina | 3–0 | 3–0 | ||
| 7. | 29 June 2005 | Waldstadion, Frankfurt, Germany | 1–4 | 1–4 | 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup | |
| 8. | 28 June 2007 | José Pachencho Romero, Maracaibo, Venezuela | 3–1 | 4–1 | 2007 Copa América |
Managerial
[edit]- As of 27 October 2022
| 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 | 65.00 |
| Total | 20 | 13 | 3 | 4 | 36 | 21 | +15 | 65.00 | ||
Honours
[edit]Player
[edit]River Plate[3]
- Argentine Primera División: 1997 Apertura, 1999 Apertura, 2000 Clausura
- Supercopa Sudamericana: 1997
Valencia
- La Liga: 2001–02, 2003–04
- UEFA Champions League runner-up: 2000–01
- UEFA Cup: 2003–04
- UEFA Super Cup: 2004
Benfica
- Primeira Liga: 2009–10
- Taça de Portugal runner-up: 2012–13
- Taça da Liga: 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2011–12
- UEFA Europa League runner-up: 2012–13
Johor Darul Ta’zim
Argentina U17
- South American Under-17 Championship runner-up: 1995
- FIFA U-17 World Cup third place: 1995
Argentina U20
Argentina
- FIFA Confederations Cup runner-up: 2005[32]
- Copa América runner-up: 2007[35]
Individual
- FIFA World Youth Championship Bronze Ball: 1997
- South American Team of the Year: 1999, 2000[52]
- UEFA Champions League top assist provider: 2002–03
- Trofeo EFE: 2005–06
- Cosme Damião Awards – Footballer of the Year: 2011[53]
Managerial
[edit]Argentina (as assistant manager)
- FIFA World Cup: 2022[54]
- Copa América: 2021, 2024;[55] third place: 2019[56]
- CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions: 2022[57]
Argentina U17
References
[edit]- ^ "Squad List: FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: Argentina (ARG)" (PDF). FIFA. 18 December 2022. p. 1. Retrieved 27 October 2024.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p Saleem, Omar (12 May 2017). "Pablo Aimar: The Elegant Magician who Inspired a Generation". These Football Times. Retrieved 9 January 2018.
- ^ a b c d "Tras casi 15 años, Aimar vuelve a vestir la casaca de River". Goal Argentina (in Spanish). 29 May 2015. Retrieved 2 September 2016.
- ^ Shams Al-Deen, Abdullah (16 June 2009). "Where In The World Is Pablo Aimar?". Goal US. Retrieved 1 September 2016.
{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ a b c d e Brassell, Andy (6 April 2010). "Benitez welcomes former protege Aimar to Anfield". ESPN FC. Retrieved 3 February 2015.
- ^ Davies, Christopher (19 February 2001). "Aimar aims for immediate impact". The Telegraph. Retrieved 3 March 2015.
- ^ [1]. World Soccer. Retrieved 30 September 2016
- ^ Hunter, Graham (23 September 2004). "Aimar's divine improvisation". UEFA. Retrieved 30 September 2016.
{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "Aimar adds zest for Zaragoza". UEFA. 29 July 2006. Archived from the original on 24 October 2012. Retrieved 5 September 2016.
- ^ "Ayala será jugador del Real Zaragoza". Real Zaragoza (in Spanish). 14 July 2006. Archived from the original on 11 August 2007. Retrieved 5 September 2016.
- ^ Rainbow, Jamie (27 July 2011). "Real Zaragoza: where did it all go wrong?". World Soccer. Retrieved 5 September 2016.
{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "Aimar jura la Constitución y será jugador comunitario". El Periódico de Aragón (in Spanish). 14 June 2007. Archived from the original on 26 September 2007. Retrieved 5 September 2016.
- ^ Aimar leaves Zaragoza for Benfica; UEFA.com, 17 July 2008
- ^ a b Marcotti, Gabriele (20 April 2010). "Portugal's Benfica Helped by Reunion of River Plate Teammates". Wall Street Journal. Retrieved 3 February 2015.
- ^ Cox, Michael (2 March 2010). "Benfica – the most attractive side in Europe?". Zonal Marking. Archived from the original on 11 November 2020. Retrieved 3 February 2015.
- ^ [2]. UEFA.com. Retrieved 9 January 2018
- ^ "Pablo Aimar despede-se do Benfica: "Foram cinco anos maravilhosos"" [Pablo Aimar says goodbye to Benfica: "I had five wonderful years"] (in Portuguese). A Bola. 6 June 2013. Archived from the original on 9 June 2013. Retrieved 6 June 2013.
- ^ Afiq, Nik (7 August 2013). "Tunku Ismail Ibrahim has confirmed that the former Benfica player, Pablo Aimar, will join Johor Darul Takzim next season". Goal. Retrieved 10 August 2013.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "Football: Johor Darul Takzim sign Aimar in biggest-ever deal in M'sia for foreign player". Straits Times. 14 September 2013. Retrieved 5 September 2016.
- ^ a b Zainal, Zulhilmi (18 January 2014). "Johor Darul Ta'zim 2–0 Perak: Southern Tigers overcome defensive Seladangs". Goal. Retrieved 22 April 2014.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "JDT axe under-par Argentine Aimar". The Star. 21 April 2016. Retrieved 5 September 2016.
- ^ "Aimar: I am anxious to play but I need to be in form". Buenos Aires Herald. 6 January 2015. Retrieved 12 January 2015.
- ^ "River Plate vs. Rosario Central - 31 May 2015 - Soccerway". int.soccerway.com.
- ^ "River Plate's Aimar announces retirement". FourFourTwo. 14 July 2015. Retrieved 16 July 2015.
- ^ "Pablo Aimar vuelve al fútbol para cumplir una cuenta pendiente". Clarín (in Spanish). 16 January 2018. Retrieved 17 January 2018.
- ^ "Estudiantes Río Cuarto Vs. Sportivo Belgrano 0 - 0". Soccerway. 23 January 2018. Retrieved 24 January 2018.
- ^ "La noche del adiós: Pablo Aimar se despidió como futbolista en su querido Estudiantes de Río Cuarto". La Nación (in Spanish). 23 January 2018. Retrieved 24 January 2018.
- ^ "Sportivo Belgrano Vs. Estudiantes Río Cuarto 2 - 1". Soccerway. 23 January 2018. Retrieved 24 January 2018.
- ^ "Pablo Aimar despediu-se com emoção no clube da terra". A Bola (in Portuguese). 23 January 2018. Retrieved 24 January 2018.
- ^ Argentina – Record International Players; at RSSSF "Argentina - Record International Players". Archived from the original on 13 January 2010. Retrieved 15 June 2022.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link) - ^ "England's revenge". BBC Sport. 7 June 2002. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
- ^ a b "Brazil 4–1 Argentina". FIFA.com. 29 June 2005. Archived from the original on 30 September 2015. Retrieved 15 March 2019.
- ^ "Tevez Nets in Argentina Victory". BBC Sport. 29 June 2007. Retrieved 12 August 2015.
- ^ "Missing Some Stars, Brazil Wins Copa América". The New York Times. 16 July 2007. Retrieved 12 August 2015.
- ^ a b "Brazil victorious in Copa America". BBC Sport. 16 July 2007. Retrieved 28 May 2009.
- ^ Aimar's divine improvisation; UEFA.com, 23 September 2004
- ^ a b c d Paul Wilson (16 July 2015). "Pablo Aimar: the Argentinian wizard admired by Maradona and Messi". The Guardian. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
- ^ a b Akash Swamynathan (15 July 2017). "The brilliance of Pablo 'El Mago' Aimar". www.sportskeeda.com. Retrieved 15 March 2019.
- ^ a b "The Next Maradonas: Grading 10 of Diego's footballing reincarnations". www.squawka.com. 18 January 2016. Retrieved 15 March 2019.
- ^ "Juan Roman Riquelme: My +10 team". FIFA.com. 28 June 2006. Archived from the original on 27 March 2019. Retrieved 16 March 2019.
- ^ Voss, Jason (24 July 2012). "What You Need to Know About Milan Target Oscar Cardozo". Bleacher Report. Retrieved 3 November 2021.
- ^ "Real Zaragoza 3–0 Gimnastic de Tarragona". ESPN. 19 November 2006. Archived from the original on 24 January 2013. Retrieved 28 December 2012.
Argentinian Aimar, who moved to Zaragoza from Valencia over the summer, has struggled to live up to his billing as 'the new Maradona' – one of several players to have been handed that tag – since moving to Spain.
- ^ "Da "Nuovi Maradona" a "Nuovi Borghi": Pablo Aimar" (in Italian). Il Pallonaro. 8 November 2010. Retrieved 7 February 2015.
- ^ "Aimar, Messi's childhood idol". FC Barcelona. Retrieved 7 February 2015.
- ^ "Pablo AIMAR presented as new U17 Argentina coach - Mundo Albiceleste". www.mundoalbiceleste.com. 14 July 2017. Retrieved 16 September 2017.
- ^ a b Grainger, James (20 April 2019). "Argentina crowned champions of 2019 South American U-17 Championship". www.batimes.com.ar. Retrieved 4 June 2019.. He was the assistant coach of the national team in the 2019 Copa America and 2021 Copa America, both held in Brazil, winning the latter.
- ^ "Pablo Aimar: "Cuando hablamos con Andrés le digo que Estudiantes va a salir de esta situación"" [Pablo Aimar: "When i talk with Andrés i tell him that Estudiantes will turn things around"] (in Spanish). Telediario Digital. June 2011. Retrieved 22 April 2014.
- ^ "Pablo Aimar, sus lágrimas y el "ganar es vivir, perder es morir"" (in Spanish). 29 November 2022. Retrieved 1 December 2022.
- ^ "P. Aimar". Soccerway. Retrieved 22 April 2014.
- ^ Pablo Aimar at ESPN FC
- ^ "Pablo Aimar". WorldFootball.net. Retrieved 15 March 2019.
- ^ "South American Team of the Year". RSSSF. 16 January 2009. Retrieved 10 March 2015.
- ^ "Galardões Cosme Damião distinguem Chalana e Aimar" [Galardões Cosme Damião distinguish Chalana and Aimar]. SAPO Desporto (in Portuguese). 28 February 2012. Retrieved 1 March 2016.
- ^ Murray, Scott (18 December 2022). "2022 World Cup final: Argentina 3-3 France (aet, 4-2 on pens) – as it happened". the Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 28 June 2024.
- ^ "Lionel Messi wins first Copa America as Argentina beat Brazil in final". BBC Sport. 9 July 2021. Retrieved 28 June 2024.
- ^ "Argentina 2-1 Chile: Messi gets first red card in 14 years as Argentina win". BBC Sport. 6 July 2019. Retrieved 28 June 2024.
- ^ "Italy 0-3 Argentina: Messi and Di Maria shine in impressive Finalissima win". BBC Sport. 31 May 2022. Retrieved 28 June 2024.
External links
[edit]- Pablo Aimar at BDFutbol
- Pablo Aimar at CiberChe (in Spanish)
- Pablo Aimar at ForaDeJogo (archived)
- Pablo Aimar at National-Football-Teams.com
- Pablo Aimar – FIFA competition record (archived)
- Pablo Aimar at kicker (in German)
- Pablo Aimar at WorldFootball.net
Pablo Aimar
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Birth and family background
Pablo César Aimar was born on 3 November 1979 in Río Cuarto, a city in Córdoba Province, Argentina.[15] His full name includes the middle name César, given as a tribute to César Luis Menotti, the renowned Argentine coach who led the national team to victory in the 1978 FIFA World Cup.[15][16] Aimar's family background was deeply rooted in football, with his father, Ricardo Aimar, having been a professional player who competed for clubs including Newell's Old Boys and Belgrano, and his younger brother, Andrés Aimar, who also became a professional footballer.[15][17] 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.[18] His early exposure to football came through family influences and participation in local clubs, such as Estudiantes de Río Cuarto, where he began honing his skills amid the supportive community atmosphere of his hometown.[18] This foundational setting in Río Cuarto shaped Aimar's initial passion for the game, laying the groundwork for his later development.[4]Youth development
Aimar began his organized football training in his hometown of Río Cuarto, joining the youth academy of local club Estudiantes de Río Cuarto as a pre-teen, where he developed his foundational skills in dribbling 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 trial, a testament to the early recognition of his potential.[19][20] 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 reserve team, 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 Ramón Díaz.[4][6] 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.[21]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 midfielder, renowned for his technical skill, dribbling ability, and playmaking vision, often drawing comparisons to Argentine legends like Diego Maradona due to his low center of gravity and creativity on the ball.[6][4] 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 Argentine Primera División.[22][23] His contributions were instrumental in River Plate securing four domestic league titles: the 1996 Apertura, 1997 Apertura, 1997 Clausura, and 1999 Apertura.[24] These successes highlighted Aimar's role in a dominant era for the club under coaches like Ramón Díaz, where his ability to unlock defenses with precise passes and opportunistic finishes proved vital. He also gained international exposure with 3 appearances in the 1999 Copa Libertadores, where River reached the quarterfinals.[25] Aimar's breakthrough was marked by standout performances in high-stakes fixtures, particularly the intense Superclásico rivalries against Boca Juniors, where he helped River secure several victories that intensified the historic Buenos Aires derby.[26] His international exposure came through the Copa Libertadores, including River's 2000 campaign that reached the semifinals and the 2001 quarterfinals against Boca Juniors, where Aimar's midfield orchestration provided crucial moments in continental competition.[22] These experiences solidified his reputation as one of Argentina's most exciting young talents before his move to Europe.Valencia
In January 2001, Valencia signed Pablo Aimar from River Plate for a club-record fee of €24 million, marking a significant investment in the 21-year-old Argentine playmaker to bolster their midfield during a period of resurgence under manager Héctor Cúper.[27] Aimar made his debut on 14 February 2001 against Racing Santander, quickly integrating into the squad and contributing to Valencia's competitive edge in La Liga. 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.[28][29] 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.[5] During this period, Aimar formed effective partnerships in midfield, notably with Gaizka Mendieta in the latter's final months at Valencia 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 David Albelda and Rubén Baraja, enhancing Valencia's balanced playstyle. Aimar's rivalry in El Clásico matches against Real Madrid and Barcelona 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 Barcelona in 2004 with a goal and key assists, performances that intensified the competitive narrative of Valencia challenging Spain's giants.[30][31][32]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.[33][34] 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.[4] 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.[35] 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.[36] A left knee sprain 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.[37][38] These setbacks restricted him to just 15 league starts in 2007–08, as Zaragoza finished 18th and dropped to the Segunda División. Despite the difficulties, Aimar contributed to Zaragoza's 2006–07 Copa del Rey campaign, where they advanced to the quarter-finals before elimination by Getafe; he appeared in 2 cup matches that season, scoring 1 goal.[11][39] In the 2007–08 edition, limited by injury, he played 2 matches as the team exited in the round of 16 against Racing de Santander.[39]Benfica
Pablo Aimar joined SL Benfica on 17 July 2008, transferring from Real Zaragoza for a fee of €11 million and signing a four-year contract under manager Quique Sánchez Flores, his former coach at Valencia.[40] Despite initial injury setbacks, Aimar quickly became a central figure in Benfica's midfield, known for his vision and creativity in linking play.[41] 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.[8] His contributions were pivotal in Benfica's domestic success, including winning the Primeira Liga title in the 2009–10 season, ending a five-year drought for the club.[41] Aimar also played a key role in securing four consecutive Taça da Liga titles from 2008–09 to 2011–12, showcasing his ability to deliver in high-stakes knockout formats.[41] In his later years at the club, Aimar assumed greater leadership responsibilities, guiding the squad through transitional periods and mentoring emerging talents like Enzo Pérez, who credited Aimar's advice for his development during their time together in Lisbon.[42] His elegant playmaking and composure under pressure helped foster a cohesive team dynamic, contributing to Benfica's entertaining style that reached the UEFA Europa League final in 2013.[4]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.[43] The move represented a significant departure to Southeast Asia, 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.[44] Inspired by the ambitious vision of club president Tunku Ismail Idris, the Crown Prince of Johor, Aimar was drawn to the project, which included plans for youth academies where he would contribute to player development alongside his on-field duties.[44] 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 1997 FIFA U-17 World Championship hosted there.[44] 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.[45] His contributions helped Johor Darul Ta'zim secure the 2014 Malaysia Super League 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.[46] Despite the short duration, Aimar's presence elevated the club's global visibility and inspired local players, aligning with Johor Darul Ta'zim's strategy to attract high-profile talent for long-term growth.[45]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.[9] He officially signed a short-term deal in May 2015, fulfilling a promise made years earlier to return to his boyhood club.[26] His comeback debut came on 31 May 2015 in a Primera División match against Rosario Central, where he entered as a substitute for the final 15 minutes in a 2–0 victory.[47] Injuries continued to plague Aimar, restricting him to just one additional appearance. On 4 June 2015, he played 30 minutes in a Copa Argentina third-round win over CA Liniers.[47] Persistent knee problems prevented further involvement, including omission from the Copa Libertadores semi-final squad against Tigres UANL.[48] Despite his limited playing time, Aimar's return as a club legend provided a significant morale boost to the River Plate squad during their successful 2015 campaign, which included winning the Copa Libertadores and Primera División titles.[49] 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.[50] 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.[9]Estudiantes de Río Cuarto
In early 2018, at the age of 38, Pablo Aimar made a symbolic return to his boyhood club, Estudiantes de Río Cuarto, 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.[51] Aimar's participation began on 16 January 2018 with a friendly match against local side Atenas de Río Cuarto, where he featured briefly to the delight of local fans. He then made his official appearance for the club in the Copa Argentina first-round match against Sportivo Belgrano de San Francisco on 23 January 2018, entering as a substitute in the 70th minute during a goalless draw that advanced Estudiantes on aggregate. These limited minutes underscored his age and physical constraints, prioritizing ceremonial involvement over competitive demands.[52] 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 Copa Argentina fixture, including former coach Marcelo Bielsa, 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.[19][51]International career
Youth international appearances
Aimar began his youth international career with Argentina's under-17 team at the 1995 FIFA U-17 World Championship in Ecuador, 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 José Pékerman, who would become a pivotal figure in Argentine youth football. In 1997, Aimar featured prominently in the South American U-20 Championship in Chile, contributing to Argentina's title win as one of the tournament's standout midfielders alongside Juan Román Riquelme. Later that year, he played all seven matches at the FIFA World Youth Championship in Malaysia, scoring one goal and providing creative impetus in midfield as Argentina secured the title with a 2-1 final victory over Uruguay.[53] Aimar's vision and dribbling were highlighted as key to the team's success, with FIFA noting the duo of Aimar and Riquelme as central to their dominant campaign, which included just one loss.[54] Aimar's youth international profile peaked at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, 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 Costa Rica and in the semi-final against Italy—and registering two assists during Argentina's unbeaten run to the gold medal, defeating Paraguay 1-0 in the final.[55] His technical skill and playmaking were instrumental in a team featuring emerging talents like Carlos Tevez and Javier Saviola, marking Argentina's first Olympic football gold since 1952.[56]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 Lithuania at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.[57] Under coach Marcelo Bielsa, 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.[58] 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 dribbling ability.[3] 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.[59] 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.[60] 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.[61] 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.[58] In the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, Aimar was part of the squad but limited by an ankle injury sustained during the round of 16 against Mexico, managing only three appearances in the group stage and round of 16 as Argentina reached the quarterfinals before a penalty shootout loss to hosts Germany.[60] He returned for the 2007 Copa América in Venezuela, again serving as a central midfielder in Pékerman's setup and helping Argentina to third place after a 3–0 final loss to Brazil and a 2–1 third-place victory over Mexico.[61] Aimar was included in the squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa but did not feature in any matches as Argentina reached the quarter-finals.[3] Aimar's final international appearance came on 9 June 2012 in a 4–3 friendly win over Brazil in New Jersey, 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 midfielder tasked with linking play, dictating tempo, 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.[2][20] Aimar's technical prowess was defined by exceptional dribbling and close control, enabling him to navigate tight spaces with agility and finesse, often drawing comparisons to Diego Maradona for his elegant, low-center-of-gravity style. Standing at 1.70 meters with a slight, agile 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.[2][62][63][64] 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.[65]Influence and reception
Pablo Aimar garnered profound admiration from football icons, most notably Diego Maradona, who declared him the only contemporary player he would pay to watch, praising his exceptional talent and creativity.[2] Lionel Messi, another Argentine legend, has frequently named Aimar as his primary idol after Maradona, crediting him for shaping his own development as a playmaker and underscoring Aimar's enduring influence on Argentina's tradition of inventive, No. 10 midfielders who prioritize vision and flair over physicality.[2] 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 dribbling techniques that delighted spectators.[15] Upon announcing his retirement in July 2015 at age 35, following injury-plagued stints in Argentina, Aimar was met with widespread tributes celebrating his career; Messi, in particular, shared an emotional message on Facebook, 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.[66] Beyond his playing days, Aimar's legacy lies in inspiring a new wave of playmakers throughout South America and Europe, 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.[4] His influence extended to youth academies and professional setups, fostering a generation that valued technical finesse in an increasingly athletic era of the sport.[20]Coaching career
Early coaching roles
After retiring from professional football in 2015, Pablo Aimar began his coaching career with the Argentine Football Association (AFA). In 2017, he took charge of the under-15 national team, offered the position by then-head coach Jorge Sampaoli. He drew on his experience as a former youth international to guide the squad, emphasizing technical development and enjoyment of the game.[67] 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 Marcelo Bielsa and José Pékerman. He continued in this role alongside his duties with the senior national team.[16][1] One of the highlights of Aimar's tenure came in 2019, when his under-17 side won the South American U-17 Championship in Peru, defeating Ecuador 1–0 in the final. The victory marked Argentina's fifth title in the competition and earned qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, where the team reached the round of 16. Aimar's team demonstrated resilience after an early stumble against Uruguay.[68]Argentina national team assistant
In August 2018, Pablo Aimar joined the coaching staff of the Argentina national football team as an assistant manager to head coach Lionel Scaloni, transitioning from his role with the under-17 squad while continuing it until 2022.[69] This appointment came shortly after the Argentine Football Association named Scaloni and Aimar as interim managers for upcoming friendlies, marking the beginning of their long-term collaboration.[69] Under Scaloni's leadership with Aimar on the staff, Argentina secured major international triumphs, including the 2021 Copa América title, the 2022 CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions (Finalissima), the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the 2024 Copa América.[70] These victories highlighted the coaching team's emphasis on tactical flexibility and collective performance, with Aimar contributing to training sessions and match strategies as part of the core group alongside assistants like Walter Samuel.[71] 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.[58] His contract as assistant manager extends through December 31, 2026, covering the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and beyond.[72]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.[73][74] 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).[75][76] Aimar's family provided crucial support during his career transitions from Argentina to Europe, accompanying him to clubs like Valencia CF and SL Benfica, where their children were born amid his professional commitments.[75][74] Known for maintaining a private personal life, 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.[74][77]Philanthropy and beliefs
Aimar is known for his strong religious beliefs, with faith playing a central role in his personal life. He has publicly affirmed his commitment to God, stating that no matter the hardships he faces, he will not lose his faith. Religion has been a source of support for him during challenging periods, particularly through practices like nightly prayers of gratitude.[78] Throughout his career and post-retirement, Aimar has engaged in various philanthropic efforts, often centered on supporting youth and underprivileged communities through football. In 2017, he participated in the "Shoot for Love" charity event in South Korea alongside Diego Maradona, where they donated U-20 World Cup tickets to individuals in need, promoting access to sports for disadvantaged youth.[79] Similarly, in 2013, Aimar joined Lionel Messi and other stars in a charity soccer match in Chicago aimed at raising funds to help children grow and develop through educational and sporting initiatives.[80] 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 Marcelo Barovero and others for an event to fund the construction of a football school, emphasizing community development and access to sports.[81] Additionally, Aimar has been linked to initiatives in Córdoba province, including a 2022 community tribute where a representative delivered a replica of the FIFA World Cup trophy to honor Julián Álvarez in Calchín, fostering pride and inspiration among youth.[82] In his role with the Argentine Football Association (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.[22] Recurring injuries, including chronic knee issues, significantly impacted his availability, particularly after age 30, leading to reduced minutes and an early retirement at 35.[2] The following table summarizes his statistics by club, encompassing domestic leagues, cups, and continental tournaments:| Club | Years Active | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| River Plate | 1996–2000, 2015 | 101 | 25 | 27 |
| Valencia CF | 2001–2006 | 216 | 33 | 50 |
| Real Zaragoza | 2006–2008 | 57 | 5 | 4 |
| SL Benfica | 2008–2013 | 179 | 17 | 42 |
| Johor Darul Ta'zim | 2013–2014 | 8 | 2 | 0 |
| Estudiantes de Río Cuarto | 2018 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 562 | 82 | 123 |
International statistics
Pablo Aimar earned 52 caps for the Argentina senior national team between 1999 and 2012, during which he scored 8 goals.[3] His international debut came on 9 June 1999 in a 4–1 friendly win against Mexico.[11] Aimar featured in major tournaments, including the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups (3 appearances each, no goals), the 2004 and 2007 Copa Américas (5 appearances total, 1 goal), and various World Cup qualifiers.[84] At youth level, Aimar was instrumental in Argentina's 1997 FIFA U-20 World Cup victory, appearing in 7 matches and scoring 3 goals, including against Jamaica, England, and in the final against Uruguay.[11] Aimar's international goals for Argentina are detailed below:| No. | Date | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 16 August 2000 | Paraguay | 2–1 | 2–1 | Friendly | River Plate Stadium, Buenos Aires, Argentina[3] |
| 2 | 2 June 2001 | Mexico | 2–0 | 3–0 | 2002 FIFA World Cup qualification | River Plate Stadium, Buenos Aires, Argentina[3] |
| 3 | 6 October 2001 | Uruguay | 2–1 | 5–1 | 2002 FIFA World Cup qualification | Estadio Centenario, Montevideo, Uruguay[3] |
| 4 | 6 September 2003 | Bolivia | 1–0 | 3–0 | 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification | Estadio Hernando Siles, La Paz, Bolivia[3] |
| 5 | 9 September 2003 | Venezuela | 2–0 | 3–0 | 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification | Estadio Olímpico, Caracas, Venezuela[3] |
| 6 | 18 August 2004 | Uruguay | 1–0 | 2–1 | Friendly | Estadio Centenario, Montevideo, Uruguay[3] |
| 7 | 9 February 2005 | Germany | 1–0 | 2–1 | Friendly | Mommsenstadion, Berlin, Germany[3] |
| 8 | 8 October 2011 | Chile | 3–0 | 4–1 | 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification | Estadio Nacional, Santiago, Chile[3] |
Managerial statistics
Aimar's coaching record at the youth level demonstrates a strong performance, particularly with the Argentina 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 2019 South American U-17 Championship, where the team went unbeaten in the tournament, defeating Ecuador 1-0 in the final.[1] As an assistant coach for the Argentina senior national team under Lionel Scaloni 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 2022 FIFA World Cup (7 wins in 7 matches), the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2024 Copa América title, and consistent performances in World Cup 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:| Role | Period | Competitions | Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses | Win % | Notable Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina U17 Head Coach | 2017–2020 | South American U-17 Championship, Friendlies, Qualifiers | 35 | 22 | 9 | 4 | 63% | Won 2019 South American U-17 Championship (5 wins, 1 draw in tournament) |
| Argentina Senior Assistant Coach | 2018–present | FIFA World Cup, Copa América, Qualifiers, Friendlies | 92 | 65 | 18 | 9 | 71% | 2022 FIFA World Cup winners (7-0-0); 2021 Copa América winners; 2024 Copa América winners (6-2-0) |
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 South America and Europe, highlighting his role in title-winning campaigns for River Plate, Valencia, and Benfica, as well as youth successes with Argentina.[5]Club
- River Plate (1996–2000): 5 × Argentine Primera División (1996 Apertura, 1997 Clausura, 1997 Apertura, 1999 Apertura, 2000 Clausura); 1 × Copa Libertadores (1996); 1 × Supercopa Sudamericana (1997). Aimar was a key figure in these victories, scoring 21 goals in 82 league appearances.[26][83][5]
- Valencia (2001–2006): 2 × La Liga (2001–02, 2003–04); 1 × UEFA Cup (2003–04); 1 × UEFA Super Cup (2004). These triumphs marked Valencia's resurgence, with Aimar central to their attacking play.[5][2]
- Benfica (2008–2013): 1 × Primeira Liga (2009–10); 4 × Taça da Liga (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.[41][5]
- Johor Darul Ta'zim (2013–2014): 1 × Malaysia Super League (2013–14).[5]
International
- South American U-20 Championship: 1997 (with Argentina).[5]
- FIFA U-20 World Cup: 1997 (with Argentina). Aimar helped secure the title in a squad featuring future stars like Juan Román Riquelme.[5]
- Olympic silver medal: 2004 (with Argentina). He was part of the squad that reached the final at the Athens Games.[87]
Individual
- FIFA U-20 World Cup Bronze Ball: 1997. Awarded for his outstanding performance in the tournament.[83]
- South American Team of the Year: 1999, 2000. Recognized by El País for his contributions at River Plate.[88]
- UEFA Champions League top assist provider: 2002–03 (with Valencia). Led the competition with his creative output.[83]
.jpg)