Argentine footballer and playmaker regarded as one of the greatest number 10s of his generation, known for his exceptional vision and passing ability.
Juan Román Riquelme was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on 24 June 1978. He spent the majority of his career at Boca Juniors, where he became the most beloved player in the club's history, winning three Copa Libertadores (2000, 2001, 2007) and six Argentine Primera División titles. His loan to Villarreal (2003-07) produced the finest period of European football by an Argentine playmaker since Maradona — he dragged them to the 2006 Champions League semi-final. He earned 51 caps for Argentina and was the fulcrum of their 2004 Olympic gold medal team. His style — total stillness, the ability to receive the ball under pressure and immediately produce a through pass with perfect weight — was the last great example of the classic enganche in world football. He and Pep Guardiola represented diametrically opposed philosophies at Barcelona, and their conflict led to his departure. He eventually became Boca Juniors president in 2023.
Being one of the last great classical number 10 playmakers
He is widely considered the last of the great traditional No.10 playmakers — a style of footballer considered almost extinct in the modern game.
Did You Know?How They Played
Creative attacking midfielder with exceptional vision, passing ability and technical skills
Lasting Impact
Considered one of Argentina's greatest playmakers and a Boca Juniors legend
Career Honours
- Copa Libertadores 2x (Boca)
- Copa América 2005
- 97 Argentina caps
- Copa Libertadores 2000
- Copa Libertadores 2001
- Intercontinental Cup 2000
- Intercontinental Cup 2003
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argentinos Juniors | 1995–1996 | 30 | 71 | #10 |
| Boca Juniors | 1996–2002 | 205 | 35 | — |
| Barcelona | 2002–2003 | 30 | 2 | — |
| Villarreal | 2003–2007 | 149 | 39 | — |
| Argentine | — | 97 | 17 | — |