Date of birth October 5, 1983 (age 27)
Place of birth Lima, Peru
Height 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
Weight 85 kg
Playing position Left Winger
Place of birth Lima, Peru
Height 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
Weight 85 kg
Playing position Left Winger
Juan Manuel Vargas (born 5 October 1983 in Magdalena Del Mar, Lima), is a Peruvian footballer winger for Italian Serie A club Fiorentina, and the Peru national team and is currently the team's captain. He is known as 'Jardo' to the fans.
Early career
Vargas got his start in the popular Peruvian team Universitario de Deportes where he quickly earned a main spot in the team by 2004, given his great play and his crowd-pleasing goals at key moments. In 2005 he transferred to Argentine team Colón de Santa Fe, where he has also earned a spot in the starting line-up and the admiration of his coaches.
Catania
In August, 2006, he signed a four year contract with Catania.
He scored his first goal for Catania on 31 October 2007, in the 88th minute, tying Siena 1–1 and prolonging Catania's unbeaten streak to 7 games. During his two year stay in Sicily, he was continuously one of their best players, and was always a first team regular. His performances helped the Sicilians to Serie A survival for two seasons. These impressive displays led to elite clubs around Europe chasing after the 23 year old's signature.
Fiorentina
It was reported that Vargas had agreed to sign for Real Madrid on 17 May 2008 but on 5 July 2008 he joined Fiorentina for a fee of €12million. Upon arriving in Florence he struggled in the left back position and was highly criticized, however after realizing his true potential as an attacking midfielder, he has become a crucial part to the Viola squad providing crucial assists, giving the squad great speed, and acting almost as a third forward.
On 24 November 2009, Vargas scored a critical spot kick goal that advanced Fiorentina onto the knock-out stages in the Champions League. This was the first time Fiorentina made it to the Round of 16 in 10 years.
Style of play
Vargas plays at left back, on the wing, or in the midfield, in both offensive and defensive positions. Vargas impresses with his ability to dribble the ball and make remarkable shots on goal. He is also known for his free kick ability and accurate crosses. His Fiorentina teammate Alberto Gilardino stated that Vargas is probably the best crosser he has played with.
International Career
He started to play in the Peruvian national team against Ecuador in Germany 2006 campaign with Paulo Autuori as a coach.
He scored his first international goal on 12 September 2007 in a friendly game against Bolivia.
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