Roberto Ayala: Biography, Facts and Career

Roberto Fabián Ayala ([roˈβeɾto faˈβjan aˈʝala]; born 14 April 1973), nicknamed El Ratón ("The Mouse"), is an Argentine former footballer who played as a centre back for the Argentina national football team, as well as Valencia and Real Zaragoza in Spain, Milan and Napoli in Italy, and Ferro Carril, River Plate and Racing Club in his native Argentina. Regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation, he stood out for his leadership and ability in the air throughout his career in spite of his small stature as a centre back. Ayala captained Argentina in a record 63 matches. He played in three FIFA World Cups and made a total of 115 international appearances.

== Club career ==

=== Early career in Argentina === Ayala began his career in his native Argentina, playing for Ferro Carril Oeste. After three seasons, he moved to River Plate where his good form attracted the attention of clubs in Europe.

=== Move to Europe ===

==== Parma, Napoli and Milan ==== Italian side Parma brought the Argentine defender to Europe. However, the club, having already used their quota of three non-EU players, loaned him to Napoli, who purchased 50% of his rights on a co-ownership deal. Ayala was bought by Milan...

Quick facts about Roberto Ayala

• Full name: Roberto Ayala
• Born: 1973-04-14
• Nationality: Argentina
• Known as: Athlete
• Wikidata ID: Q189535

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Profile compiled from public Wikipedia and Wikidata data. Details can change over time.