Pablo Marí, the Spanish Defender: A Journey of Resilience and Talent

Pablo Marí Villar is a name that resonates in world football, particularly for Flamengo fans, where he left an indelible mark in 2019. As a Spanish center-back, his career is defined by determination, adaptation to diverse football cultures, and overcoming a traumatic incident. This article explores Marí’s life, career, and defining moments, with a focus on his time in Brazil and his impact on the sport.

Early Life and First Steps in Football

Origins in Valencia

Born on August 31, 1993, in Almussafes, a small town in the province of Valencia, Spain, Pablo Marí grew up in a region passionate about football. From a young age, he showed talent for the sport, joining the youth academy of RCD Mallorca, a traditional club from the Balearic Islands. His dedication and skill as a central defender began to stand out, marking the start of a promising career.

Development at Mallorca

At Mallorca, Marí honed his defensive abilities, displaying game vision, physical strength, and tactical awareness. He progressed through the youth ranks and debuted for the senior team in 2011, still young, in Spain’s Segunda División. Despite his early debut, establishing himself as a professional was challenging due to fierce competition and the need to gain experience elsewhere.

European Career: Early Challenges

Loan to Gimnàstic de Tarragona

In 2013, Marí was loaned to Gimnàstic de Tarragona, also in the Segunda División. There, he gained more playing time, refining his marking and positioning skills. His height (1.93m) and aerial prowess made him a formidable defender, but he still needed to prove himself in more competitive leagues.

Move to Manchester City

In 2016, a significant milestone came with his transfer to Manchester City, one of England’s football giants. However, under Pep Guardiola’s management, Marí struggled to secure a spot in the first team. Instead, he was loaned to clubs like Girona (Spain), NAC Breda (Netherlands), and Deportivo La Coruña (Spain). These loans were crucial for his development, exposing him to different playing styles and teaching him to adapt to new environments.

Arrival in Brazil: A New Chapter with Flamengo

Surprising Signing

In July 2019, Pablo Marí shocked the football world by signing with Flamengo, one of Brazil’s biggest clubs. The signing, recommended by Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, sparked curiosity and skepticism. After all, Marí had no experience in top European leagues, and his move to Brazil was a bold gamble. He became the third Spaniard to wear Flamengo’s jersey, following goalkeeper José Túnel Caballero (1937) and forward José Ufarte (1961–1964).

Adapting to Brazilian Football

Arriving in Brazil presented both cultural and professional challenges. Brazilian football is known for its intensity, creativity, and fast pace, contrasting with Europe’s more tactical style. Marí, however, adapted quickly. He formed a solid defensive partnership with Rodrigo Caio, bringing balance to Flamengo’s backline. His tactical discipline, combined with Jorge Jesus’s coaching, was key to his integration.

Historic Achievements with Flamengo

The year 2019 was magical for Pablo Marí and Flamengo. Under Jorge Jesus’s leadership, the club enjoyed a golden season, winning the Brazilian Championship and the Copa Libertadores. Marí was a cornerstone in the Libertadores campaign, particularly in the semifinal against Grêmio, where his defensive solidity helped secure qualification.

In the Libertadores final against River Plate, Marí played in Flamengo’s historic 2–1 comeback victory, with goals from Gabigol. He became the first Spaniard to win the Libertadores, etching his name in the club’s and South American football’s history. Additionally, he scored two goals in the Brazilian Championship, against Avaí and Ceará, showcasing his offensive contribution in set pieces.

Off-Field Impact

Beyond the pitch, Marí won over fans with his humility and dedication. He embraced Brazilian culture, learning Portuguese and connecting with the passionate Flamengo fanbase. In interviews, he credited Jorge Jesus for teaching him defensive “tools” he hadn’t encountered before, enhancing his tactical understanding.

Transfer to Arsenal and Return to Europe

New Challenge in the Premier League

After his success at Flamengo, Marí caught the attention of Arsenal in England. In January 2020, he joined on loan with an option to buy. The transfer was a milestone, with Flamengo earning around €16 million (R$97.9 million at the time), a significant profit for a player signed for just R$5.3 million.

At Arsenal, Marí faced the challenge of adapting to the Premier League, one of the world’s most competitive leagues. He debuted against Chelsea and, despite solid performances, struggled for playing time due to competition in the backline. Nevertheless, his stint was deemed positive, and Arsenal exercised the purchase option in June 2020.

Loans and Consolidation

After Arsenal, Marí was loaned to Udinese and Monza in Italy, where he continued to showcase his quality as a defender. At Monza, he faced one of the most challenging moments of his life, testing his resilience off the field.

The Milan Incident: A Test of Courage

Supermarket Attack

In October 2022, Pablo Marí endured a traumatic incident. While shopping in a supermarket in Assago, near Milan, he was stabbed in the back during a random attack by a man with mental health issues. The attack left one fatality and four others injured, including Marí. The knife came within centimeters of his lung but struck only muscle tissue.

Marí was hospitalized conscious and underwent surgery to repair two torn muscles. After a few days, he was discharged and began recovery. His physical and mental recovery was remarkable, and he returned to the pitch months later, demonstrating strength and determination.

Impact on Career and Life

The incident gave Marí a new perspective. He spoke publicly about valuing life and family, emphasizing the crucial support from his wife and son during recovery. At Monza, he continued to play a key role, proving the trauma did not diminish his passion for football.

Playing Style and Characteristics

A Complete Defender

Pablo Marí is known for his versatility as a center-back. His key attributes include:

• Aerial Ability: At 1.93m, he dominates aerial duels, both defensively and offensively.
• Tactical Awareness: His ability to anticipate plays and position himself effectively sets him apart.
• Ball-Playing Ability: Marí is comfortable with the ball, a valued trait in modern defenders.
• Discipline: He rarely makes significant errors, maintaining consistency on the field.

Influence of Jorge Jesus

Marí’s time at Flamengo under Jorge Jesus was a turning point. He credited the Portuguese coach with enhancing his tactical vision, teaching him to read the game more strategically. This growth was pivotal for his transition to more competitive leagues like the Premier League and Serie A.

Legacy at Flamengo and in Brazilian Football

An Unlikely Idol

Despite spending only six months at Flamengo, Pablo Marí left a lasting legacy. His contributions to the 2019 Libertadores and Brazilian Championship victories endeared him to the Flamengo faithful. He is remembered not only for his technical quality but also for his commitment and respect for the club’s jersey.

Inspiration for Other Foreigners

Marí’s stint paved the way for other European players to consider Brazilian football as a growth opportunity. His story showed that with dedication and adaptation, success is possible in a vastly different football environment.

Personal Life and Values

Family and Humility

Off the field, Marí is described as reserved and professional. He values his family, often highlighting the role of his wife and son. After the Milan incident, he emphasized the importance of living each day with gratitude, a lesson that carried into his career.

Connection with Brazil

Even after leaving Flamengo, Marí maintained ties with Brazil. He expressed affection for the country and its fans, frequently engaging with supporters on social media. His time in Brazil was more than a professional experience; it was a profound cultural immersion.

Future Prospects

Continuing in Europe

At 32 years old in 2025, Pablo Marí remains active in European football with Monza. His experience in top leagues and resilience make him a valuable asset, with the potential to perform at a high level for a few more seasons. Clubs like Flamengo monitor his progress, and fans often speculate about a possible return to Brazil.

Potential Return to Brazil?

While Marí is focused on his European career, Flamengo fans dream of his return. His chemistry with the club and its supporters created a special bond, and a return to Brazil could be a fitting way to cap his career, as he did in 2019.

Conclusion

Pablo Marí is more than a talented defender; he is a symbol of resilience, adaptation, and dedication. His journey, from rural Valencia to glory with Flamengo, and through adversity like the Milan attack, showcases his strength of character. In Brazil, he left a legacy of triumphs and affection, while in Europe, he continues to build his story. For football fans, Pablo Marí is a reminder that with hard work and passion, one can leave a lasting mark on the world’s most popular sport.

Robert Rojas: The Paraguayan Defender Who Conquered Football

Robert Rojas, known as “El Sicario,” is one of the most prominent names in Paraguayan football today. Born on April 30, 1996, in Pinasco, Paraguay, Rojas has established himself as a versatile and reliable defender, with a career marked by solid performances and a journey through some of South America’s most significant clubs. This article explores the life, career, and impact of Robert Rojas in football, focusing on his path from youth academies to international recognition.

Early Life and First Steps in Football

Humble Beginnings in Pinasco

Robert Rojas was born in a small town in rural Paraguay, where football is more than a sport—it’s a passion that unites communities. Raised in a modest family, Rojas grew up playing football on the streets and makeshift fields of Pinasco. From an early age, his determination and physical talent caught the attention of local scouts, who saw potential in the young player to excel in the sport.

Early Clubs and Development

At 14, Rojas joined the youth academy of Club Guaraní, one of Paraguay’s most traditional clubs. His dedication and defensive skills began to stand out, particularly his ability to play both as a central defender and a right-back. During these formative years, Rojas developed a competitive mindset and a playing style characterized by physical strength, game reading, and tactical commitment.

Rise at Club Guaraní

Professional Debut and Immediate Impact

Rojas made his professional debut for Guaraní in 2016, at the age of 20. His first season was marked by consistent performances, with 22 matches played and four goals scored in the following season—an impressive feat for a defender. His versatility, combined with an imposing presence on the field, quickly made him a key player in Guaraní’s tactical setup.

Recognition in Paraguay

By 2018, Rojas was considered one of the greatest prospects in Paraguayan football. His ability to anticipate plays, combined with his skill in aerial duels and one-on-one situations, drew attention from international clubs. The Paraguayan newspaper ABC Color hailed Rojas as a “sensation of Paraguayan football” that season, fueling rumors of a potential transfer abroad.

Move to River Plate

Arrival at the Argentine Giant

In 2019, Robert Rojas took a significant leap in his career by signing with River Plate, one of South America’s most prestigious clubs. The transfer was a milestone, not only for Rojas but also for Paraguayan football, as one of its talents was sought after by a continental giant. River Plate paid approximately $2 million for the defender, an investment that soon proved justified.

Adapting to Argentine Football

Adapting to the competitive Argentine football scene was not immediate. Under the guidance of coach Marcelo Gallardo, known for his tactical demands, Rojas had to adjust to a more intense and technical style of play. However, his work ethic and humility helped him earn the trust of the coach and fans. He quickly became a regular starter, forming a solid defensive partnership with players like Paulo Díaz and Jonatan Maidana.

Titles with River Plate

During his time at River Plate, Rojas won several major titles, including the Argentine Primera División and the Supercopa Argentina. His contribution was crucial in campaigns like the Copa Libertadores, where his defensive solidity helped River advance through key stages. Rojas also stood out in derbies against Boca Juniors, earning the nickname “El Sicario” for his ability to neutralize opposing attackers.

Playing Style and Characteristics

Defensive Versatility

One of Robert Rojas’ greatest qualities is his versatility. Capable of playing as a central defender or right-back, he offers tactical flexibility to coaches. His height (1.76 m) and physical strength make him dominant in aerial duels, while his speed and anticipation are key to intercepting attacking plays.

Leadership on the Field

Despite being relatively young, Rojas has shown maturity on the pitch from early on. He is known for his composure under pressure and his ability to organize the defensive line. Teammates often praise his communication and leadership, qualities that have made him a pillar in every club he has played for.

Offensive Contribution

Though primarily a defender, Rojas also contributes offensively. His headed goals from set pieces and his ability to advance as a right-back showcase his versatility. During his time at Guaraní, he scored four goals in a single season, a rare achievement for a defender.

Paraguayan National Team

Call-Ups and Debut

Rojas debuted for the Paraguayan national team in 2019, under coach Eduardo Berizzo. His call-up for friendlies against Peru and Mexico marked the beginning of his international career. Since then, he has become a regular in the squad, participating in competitions like the Copa América and World Cup qualifiers.

Challenges with the National Team

Paraguay has struggled to qualify for recent World Cups, and Rojas is part of a generation aiming to restore the country’s international standing. Despite the challenges, his defensive consistency has been a highlight, particularly in matches against heavyweight South American opponents like Brazil and Argentina.

Stint at Vasco da Gama

Loan to Brazil

In 2023, Rojas was loaned to Vasco da Gama in Brazil to gain more playing time and recover from an injury that temporarily sidelined him at River Plate. As reported by Bolavip Brasil, the deal included a loan contract with an option to buy, reflecting the Brazilian club’s confidence in his potential.

Impact in Brazilian Football

At Vasco, Rojas quickly adapted to the physical and competitive style of Brazilian football. His debut in the Brazilian Championship was marked by solid performances, particularly his ability to neutralize fast and skillful attackers. Despite the pressure of playing for a club with a passionate fanbase, Rojas earned the respect of Vasco supporters with his dedication and professionalism.

Challenges and Injuries

A knee injury in 2022, sustained during his time at River Plate, was one of the biggest challenges of his career. The recovery was long and required patience, but Rojas showed resilience by returning to the field at a high level. His stint at Vasco was an opportunity to prove he could still compete at the top level.

Personal Life and Legacy

Humility and Connection to Roots

Off the field, Rojas is known for his humility and connection to his Paraguayan roots. He frequently visits Pinasco, where he supports community projects and encourages young athletes to pursue their dreams. In interviews, Rojas has highlighted the importance of his family in his journey, crediting them for his success.

Inspiration for Young Players

As one of the few Paraguayan players to shine at elite clubs like River Plate, Rojas is an inspiration for the next generation. His story of overcoming humble beginnings in Pinasco to playing in packed stadiums in Argentina and Brazil serves as an example that talent, combined with hard work, can open doors.

Controversies and Resilience

Incidents in Paraguay

In 2025, Rojas was indirectly linked to an incident during a match between Palmeiras and Cerro Porteño in the Libertadores Under-20, where Paraguayan fans committed racist acts against Brazilian players. Though not directly involved, the episode sparked discussions about racism in South American football, a topic Rojas has addressed in interviews as something that needs to be tackled.

Response to Adversity

Rojas has faced criticism and tough moments, such as injuries and periods of instability in his career, but he has always responded with professionalism. His ability to reinvent himself, particularly after the 2022 injury, is a testament to his mental strength.

The Future of Robert Rojas

Career Prospects

At 29, Rojas still has much to offer football. His experience at River Plate and Vasco, combined with his consistency for the Paraguayan national team, makes him an attractive prospect for clubs in South America and potentially Europe. Recent rumors suggest interest from MLS teams and secondary European leagues, though Rojas has expressed a desire to continue competing at a high level.

Legacy in Paraguay

In Paraguay, Rojas is already regarded as one of the great defenders of his generation. His journey reinforces the country’s reputation for producing talented defenders, like José Luis Chilavert and Carlos Gamarra. With years still ahead, Rojas has the opportunity to cement his name in Paraguayan football history.

Conclusion

Robert Rojas is more than a talented defender; he is a symbol of determination and success for Paraguayan football. From his humble beginnings in Pinasco to his triumphs with River Plate and Vasco da Gama, Rojas has shown that hard work and passion for the game can take a player to the top. His versatility, leadership, and resilience make him one of South America’s most respected players. As his career progresses, “El Sicario” continues to inspire fans and young athletes, leaving a legacy that transcends the pitch.