Carlos Valderrama

Recognized for his mop-top curly blonde hair, but best known for his sharp skillful passing Carlos Alberto Valderrama Palacio was born in Santa Marta, Colombia in 1961. “El Pibe” (“The Kid”), as he was often called by his teammates, began his professional career at 19 playing for Union Magdalena in Colombia’s First Division. After a season each with Millionarios and Deportivo Cali he joined Montpellier of the French First Division in 1988. In 1990 they won the French Cup but then was transferred to Real Valladolid of Spain. Valderrama struggled finding himself in Spain and after one season, went back to Colombia.

With Atletico Junior he found instant success as they won the Futbol Professional Colombiano in 1993 and again in 1995. His impressive management of the game and efficient passing could not be hidden and after a dazzling display of talent in the 1994 World Cup (in the United States), the upstart MLS (Major League Soccer) brought him onboard to play for the Tampa Bay Mutiny. Immediately he won both the MLS All-Star of the Year award and Most Valuable Player award in the same year. After paying with Miami Fusion and Colorado Rapids Valderrama retired in 2002. To this date he remains the MLS All-time leader in assists.

Internationally was where El Pibe shined best. He captained Colombia in the 1990, 1994 and 1998 World Cups and is their all time leader in caps with 111. Although not the flashy goal scorer, 11 in international play, as many other Latino stars of his time, Valderrama was named South American Footballer of the year in 1987 and 1993. He brought many moments of brilliance to the pitch despite his bulky physique and lack of speed. In 1999 he was named to Pele’s top players of the 20th century, in 2004 he made FIFA’s Top 125 Living Players list in 2006 and also in 2006 a 22-foot tall bronze statue of him was built in his hometown stadium Eduardo Santos stadium.

He is married and has three children.

Personal information

Senior career*

National team