Javier Mascherano

50 Top Soccer Player their trade today, based on a combination of current form, potential and overall ability.  Ranking  determined by a panel of contributors to ESPN's soccer.

Javier Mascherano  Rank Player 36


Javier Mascherano
Nickname            Jefecito
Date of Birth: Jun 8, 1984

San Lorenzo, Santa Fe
Nationality: Argentina
Height: 178 cm.
Weight: 77 Kg.
Position: Midfielder
Squad Number: 14
National Team Page: Argentin

Profile
Birth name                     Javier Alejandro Mascherano
Nickname                      Jefecito
Birth date                      June 8, 1984
Birth place                     San Lorenzo, Santa Fe, Argentina
Height                           1.74 m (5 ft 9 in)
Weight                          77 kg
Playing position              Defensive midfielder
Current club                  Barcelona
Squad Number             14
Previous team                Liverpool
National team                Argentina


Biography
Javier Mascherano  is an Argentine footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for FC Barcelona. He can also play as a central defender. Mascherano began his career at River Plate. He earned his first senior honours in 2003–04, winning the Primera División Argentina. He also won an Olympic gold medal with Argentina in the Athens Games and finished runner up in the Copa América 2004.

He was considered a key part of the national side by past coach Diego Maradona who stated that his team was just Jonás, Mascherano, Messi and eight more.  Mascherano also holds an Italian passport, which makes him eligible as an EU player.

Scouting thumbnail
One-dimensional bulldog in midfield who ranges across the entire field and makes numerous tackles. Specializes in breaking up opposing attacks. Needs work on his passing and shooting.