Argentine footballer and Inter Milan legend, one of the most successful defenders in Serie A history with 5 league titles and the 2010 Champions League.
Javier Adelmar Zanetti was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on 10 August 1973. He joined Inter Milan from Talleres in 1993 and spent his entire 22-year career at the club — making 858 appearances, the most by any non-Italian player in Serie A history. He captained Inter to the 2010 UEFA Champions League, the club's first European Cup in 45 years, under José Mourinho — completing the Treble alongside Serie A and Coppa Italia. He won five consecutive Serie A titles from 2006 to 2010. He earned 143 caps for Argentina — appearing at three World Cups — and was one of the most respected defenders of his generation despite never winning a major international trophy. He played in virtually every outfield position across his career. He suffered a serious Achilles tendon injury in 2012 but remarkably returned to play at the highest level aged 40. He retired in 2014 and became Inter's vice-president. His professionalism, longevity and loyalty made him the embodiment of what a football club captain should be.
Most appearances in Inter Milan history with 858 games
How They Played
Versatile defender who could play right-back or left-back, known for pace, stamina, crossing ability and leadership
Lasting Impact
One of the greatest one-club players and most loyal captains in football history
Career Honours
- Serie A 5x
- Champions League 2010
- Treble 2010
- 143 Argentina caps
- UEFA Cup 1998
- Coppa Italia 2005
- Coppa Italia 2006
- Coppa Italia 2010
- Coppa Italia 2011
- FIFA Club World Cup 2010
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Talleres | 1993–1995 | 858 | 5 | #6 |
| Inter Milan | 1995–2014 | 858 | 16 | — |
| Banfield | 1991–1993 | 35 | 1 | — |
| Argentine | — | 143 | 5 | — |