Luis Antonio Valencia Mosquera emerged from the Amazon rainforest to become one of the most decorated Ecuadorian footballers in history. Over a career spanning two decades, he transitioned from a right winger into an effective right-back, amassing 99 international caps and securing numerous domestic titles in both England and his home country of Ecuador.
Early Development and El Nacional
Born on 4 August 1985 in Lago Agrio, near Nueva Loja, Valencia spent his childhood helping his mother sell drinks at a local stadium and scavenging for empty bottles. Spotted by scout Pedro Perlaza at age 11, he joined the FA-run sports academy in Sucumbíos. At 16, he left home for Quito to join the military-backed club El Nacional. Playing in central midfield on a monthly salary of 50 dollars, he became a regular, making over 80 appearances and winning the 2005 Ecuadorian Serie A title.
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Valencia moved to Spanish club Villarreal in 2005. Finding limited first-team opportunities, he spent time on loan at Recreativo, where he contributed to the team's promotion to La Liga. In August 2006, he joined English Premier League side Wigan Athletic on an initial loan, later signing a permanent deal worth approximately £5 million in January 2008. His performances caught the attention of larger clubs, and he turned down an approach from Real Madrid in 2009.
Manchester United Tenure
In June 2009, Valencia signed a four-year contract with Manchester United for a reported fee of £16 million. Over ten years at the club, he won two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two League Cups, and three FA Community Shields, eventually captaining the side. He also secured the UEFA Europa League title. Despite a severe ankle fracture and dislocation sustained in 2010, he returned to maintain his place in the squad until his departure in 2019.
International Career and Retirement
Making his national team debut in 2004, Valencia represented Ecuador in the 2006 and 2014 FIFA World Cups, as well as several Copa América tournaments. He finished his international career with 11 goals in 99 appearances. After leaving Manchester, he joined LDU Quito in July 2019, winning the inaugural Copa Ecuador. He announced his retirement from professional football in May 2021.
Fast facts
- Born: 4 August 1985, Lago Agrio, Ecuador
- Primary positions: Right winger, right-back
- International caps: 99
- International goals: 11
- First European club: Villarreal
- Longest tenure: Manchester United (2009–2019)
- Last club: LDU Quito
- Retirement: May 2021
Questions readers ask
Did Antonio Valencia play for Real Madrid?
No, while he received an offer from the club in January 2009, he turned it down and subsequently signed with Manchester United.
What major trophies did Valencia win with Manchester United?
He won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, two League Cups, three FA Community Shields, and the UEFA Europa League.
