Juan Román Riquelme Biography: Net Worth, Age, Career, Records, Family, Achievements!

Juan Román Riquelme is an Argentine former professional footballer who is considered one of the most iconic and talented playmakers of his generation. Riquelme spent the majority of his illustrious club career with Boca Juniors, making over 300 appearances and helping the team win numerous titles.

At the international level, Riquelme represented the Argentina national team for over a decade, including at three World Cups.

Riquelme was renowned for his superb technique, vision, passing, and ability to control the tempo of games. His composure with the ball at his feet and eye for the killer pass made Riquelme one of the most feared offensive talents in South American football during the 2000s. After retiring in 2015, the legendary number 10 remains a revered figure among Boca Juniors supporters.

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Juan Riquelme’s Net Worth and Salary

According to reports, Juan Roman Riquelme has a net worth of approximately $18 million as of 2024. The majority of his wealth has been accumulated through his lucrative footballing salary and endorsements during his playing career.

At the peak of his career, Riquelme was one of the highest paid players in Argentine football. During his time with Boca Juniors and Villarreal in the 2000s, he earned salaries of up to $5 million per year. His weekly wage while playing for Argentinos Juniors in the 1990s was around $10,000.

Riquelme also generated income through various sponsorship deals and commercial endorsements. Major brands he partnered with included Adidas, Pepsi and Topper. His high profile in South America made him an attractive proposition for brands seeking promotion across the continent.

In terms of assets, Riquelme owns several properties in Argentina. This includes a mansion in the Buenos Aires suburb of San Isidro valued at around $2 million. Overall, through his playing contracts and off-field business activities, he built up a sizeable personal fortune over his career.

Juan Riquelme’s Age and Early Life

Juan Roman Riquelme was born on June 24, 1978 in San Fernando, Buenos Aires, Argentina. He was raised in the Don Torcuato district of Buenos Aires with his parents and siblings.

Riquelme began playing football from a very young age in his local neighborhood. He joined the youth academy of Argentinos Juniors in 1988 at the age of 10 after being scouted playing in a youth tournament.

After progressing through the club’s youth ranks and making his professional debut in 1995, Riquelme was sold to Boca Juniors in 1997 at the age of 19. This would be the start of his iconic career with his boyhood club.

Juan Riquelme’s Football Career

Early Years at Argentinos Juniors (1995-1997)

Made professional debut in November 1995 vs Huracán at age 17.
Quickly became integral part of first team, helping Argentinos avoid relegation in 1996.
Emerged as one of Argentina’s most promising young talents.
Played over 50 games and scored 13 goals before joining Boca Juniors.

Becoming an Icon with Boca Juniors (1997-2002)

Signed for Boca Juniors in 1997 for a fee of $7 million.
Helped club win 8 titles including Intercontinental Cup and Copa Libertadores.
Man of the Match as Boca beat Real Madrid 2-1 in 2000 Intercontinental Cup final.
Played over 200 games and scored 41 goals in his first Boca spell.
Voted South American Footballer of the Year in 2000 and 2001.

Barcelona and Villarreal in Spain (2002-2008)

Joined Barcelona for €10 million in 2002 after Argentina’s World Cup campaign.
Struggled to adapt to life in Spain and quickly fell out of favor at Barcelona.
Joined Villarreal CF on loan in 2003, move later made permanent for €8 million.
Became a star for Villarreal and helped them qualify for Champions League.
Scored 42 goals in 191 total appearances for the club until 2008.

Return to Boca Juniors (2007-2011)

Rejoined Boca on loan in 2007 after 5 years in Spain.
Helped Boca win Recopa Sudamericana, Copa Libertadores and Argentine title in first year back.
Permanently signed for Boca again in 2008 for $15 million.
Played over 100 more games and won another 4 titles during second spell at club.
Became Boca Juniors vice-captain under Martin Palermo.

Later Playing Career (2011-2015)

Joined Brazilian side Corinthians in 2011 but only made 11 appearances due to injury issues.
Returned to Boca for a third spell in 2012 and remained an important player despite ageing.
Retired in June 2015 after a legendary career with Boca Juniors.
Made over 300 appearances and scored 44 goals during his 3 stints at the club.

Juan Riquelme’s International Career with Argentina

Made international debut for Argentina in 1999 against Venezuela.
Played at the 2002, 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Scored 17 goals in 51 appearances for Argentina from 1999 to 2011.
Reached quarterfinals with Argentina at 2006 World Cup, losing to Germany on penalties.
Retired from international football in 2011 after Argentina’s Copa America exit. Had disputes with manager Diego Maradona.
Won Olympic gold medal with Argentina at 2008 Beijing Olympics.

-Runner up in 2004 Copa America and 2007 Copa America with Argentina.

Juan Riquelme’s Playing Style and Characteristics

Masterful technique and close control. Could manipulate the ball with ease.
Superb passing and vision. Could dictate games with his distribution.
Intelligent reading of the game. Knew precisely when and how to release the ball.
Creative flair and ability to unlock defenses with incisive through balls.
Composed presence and decision making on the ball. Rarely surrendered possession.

Goalscoring

Dangerous shooting from long range. Packed powerful strikes from distance.
Clinical finisher from inside the penalty area. Knew how to find the corners.
Composed penalty taker. Converted dozens of spot kicks during his career.
Threat at set pieces. Possessed excellent free kick and corner delivery.

Work Rate

Tenacious pressing and harrying of opponents when not in possession.
Willingness to track back and help the defense. Stamina to contribute at both ends.
Led by example with his tireless running during games. Covered huge distances.
Determined, hard-working attitude inspired teammates.

Leadership

Assumes responsibility and leads team by example. Total professional.
Calm, authoritative presence on the pitch. Organizes and directs teammates.
Highly competitive and motivated. Inspires those around him.
Respected figure in the dressing room. Mentored younger players.

Juan Riquelme’s Family and Personal Life

Born to Jorge Riquelme and María Antonia. Has three brothers named Cristian, Pablo and Diego.
Married high school sweetheart Mariana Donda in 2003. She was a model and TV personality.
Has three sons named Agustín (born 2003), Fernando (born 2005) and Juan Román Jr (born 2011) with Mariana.
Parents and siblings have always been a close part of Riquelme’s life. Remained in his hometown of San Fernando.

Off Pitch Interests

Devout Catholic. Has made donations to Catholic charities over the years.
Enjoys playing chess during his spare time. Has competed in tournaments.
Spends time managing business interests including a supermarket chain.
Keeps active running every day but lives a relatively quiet life focused on family.
Still follows football as a fan and regularly attends Boca Juniors games.

Personality and Character

Deeply competitive and determined. Focused mentality on the pitch.
Humble personality despite superstar status. Remained loyal to boyhood club.
Introverted, quiet, simple lifestyle away from the spotlight. Enjoys privacy.
Strong principles and social conscience. Supportive of charitable causes.
Well-respected for professionalism and sportsmanship during career.

Juan Riquelme’s Legacy and Significance in Football

Club Legacy

Boca Juniors’ greatest modern icon. Statue built in his honor outside stadium.
Helped Boca become South America’s most successful club