Iván de la Peña Profile


Ivan de la Peña was born on May 6, 1976, in Santander, Spain. From a young age, he exhibited an innate talent for football, displaying exceptional ball control and a deep understanding of the game. De la Peña's journey began in the youth academy of Racing Santander, where he honed his skills and quickly rose through the ranks, catching the eye of talent scouts.

De la Peña's breakthrough moment came in 1994 when he made his professional debut for FC Barcelona. His exceptional technical ability, elegant style, and creative flair made an instant impact at the Catalan club. De la Peña's ability to dictate play, effortlessly glide past opponents, and pick out precise passes earned him the nickname "Little Buddha" among fans and pundits.

During his time at Barcelona, de la Peña played a vital role in the team's success. He was an integral part of the squad that won consecutive La Liga titles in 1997 and 1998. His ability to unlock defences with his incisive passes and mesmerizing dribbling skills made him a favourite among the Barcelona faithful.

Despite his immense talent, de la Peña's career was marred by injuries that hindered his progress and limited his playing time. However, his skill and impact on the pitch remained evident whenever he was fit to play. After leaving Barcelona in 2002, he continued to showcase his abilities at various clubs, including Lazio, Marseille, and Espanyol.

De la Peña's exceptional performances at the club level did not go unnoticed by the Spanish national team. He made his international debut in 1996 and represented his country on multiple occasions, including the UEFA European Championship in 2000. His ability to create scoring opportunities and his exquisite vision were instrumental in Spain's attacking play.

Ivan de la Peña's playing career left a lasting impact on the game. His technical brilliance, close ball control, and ability to dictate the rhythm of the game made him a joy to watch. De la Peña's elegance and artistic style of play continue to inspire aspiring footballers, emphasizing the importance of creativity and flair in the sport.


Iván de la Peña - Info


Iván de la Peña profile pic

Name: Iván de la Peña
Date of Birth: 6th May 1976
Nationality: Spain
Position(s): Midfield Playmaker
Career: 1993 to 2011
Regular Shirt Number(s):
Nickname(s): Pequeño Buddha (Little Buddha)


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