Rafael Marquez

Rafael Márquez Álvarez (born 13 February 1979 in Zamora, Michoacán) is a Mexico football (soccer) defender (football) and defensive midfielder, who is currently playing for FC Barcelona in the Spain La Liga and the Mexico national football team, where Rafael Marquez is currently the Captain (football).

Club career

F.C. Atlas

Since making Rafael Marquez international debut on 5 February 1997 against Ecuador national football team, Márquez has been one of the Mexican national football team's most important players. Márquez has played various tournament's with the Mexican team, winning the 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup and the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Márquez started all four of Mexico's games during the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Korea/Japan, where Rafael Marquez was given the Captain's Armband by then coach Javier Aguirre despite Rafael Marquez young age of 23. Despite a strong performance during the group stage of the tournament, Rafael Marquez received a red card during Mexico's second round 2-0 loss to the United States national soccer team for a deliberate midair head butt on Cobi Jones in the final minutes of the match. Márquez was an integral part of Mexico's subsequent World Cup qualification campaign and was selected by Argentina coach Ricardo Lavolpe for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.

During the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Márquez played in all of four of Mexico's opening round matches, and scored the lone Mexican goal in a 2-1 loss to Argentina national football team in the second round off a Pável Pardo free kick which was headed to the far post by Mario Méndez, allowing an unmarked Márquez to strike the ball into the back of the net. Since Mexico's second round exit, Rafael Marquez has spoken out about the need to encourage future Mexican football players to play in Europe to increase the competitiveness of the team.

Former Mexican coach Hugo Sánchez asked Márquez to participate in the 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the 2007 Copa America. Rafael joined up with the team Mexico for the Gold Cup's championship game against the United States after the conclusion of La Liga 2006-07; Rafa started the match, a game that Mexico lost 2-1.

Playing style

One of Márquez's strengths is Rafael Marquez versatility which allows Rafael Marquez to play in many positions such as right-back, centre-back or defensive midfield. However, it is clear that Rafael Marquez best position is in the center of defense. Rafa relies on Rafael Marquez ability to read the game and vision. This gives the impression that he's always a step ahead of the forwards. Rafael Marquez is also known for Rafael Marquez distinct ability at playing the long cross field pass. This is a very useful asset for all Rafael Marquez team as it allows Rafael Marquez to switch the attack from one side of the field to another as well as changing the focal point of the attack.

Honours

International:

Mexico national football team
- FIFA Confederations Cup:
- - Winner (1): 1999
- - Fourth place(1): 2005
- CONCACAF Gold Cup:
- - Winner (1): 2003
- Copa América:
- - Runner-up (1): 2001
- - Third Place (2) : 1999, 2007

Club:

AS Monaco FC
- Ligue 1:
- - Winner (1): 2000
- Trophée des champions:
- - Winner (1): 2000-
- Coupe de la Ligue:
- - Winner (1): 2003-

FC Barcelona
- La Liga:
- - Winner (3): La Liga 2004-05, La Liga 2005-06, La Liga 2008-09
- Copa del Rey:
- - Winner (1): Copa del Rey 2008–09
- Supercopa de España:
- - Winner (2): 2005-2006, 2006-2007
- UEFA Champions League:
- - Winner (2): UEFA Champions League 2005-06, UEFA Champions League 2008-09
- FIFA World Club Cup:
- - Runner-up (1):2006 FIFA Club World Cup

Individual:

- Best defender (football) in the Ligue 1 in the 1999-2000 season.
- Best North American football player in 2005.
- 3rd Most Popular Player in the World in 2006 (IFFHS).
- Nominated for the 2007 FIFA World Player of the Year, in a list of thirty players.
- Winner of Free Kick Masters 2008.