Cristhian Ricardo Stuani Curbelo has established a professional trajectory defined by extensive service in Spanish football and consistent goal-scoring output. Born in 1986 in Tala, Uruguay, the striker holds both Uruguayan and Italian citizenship. His career, which began at Danubio, has spanned several European leagues and included significant contributions to both club and international competitions.
Early Career and European Transition
After beginning his professional journey at Danubio and gaining experience on loan at Bella Vista, Stuani moved to Italy in 2008 to join Reggina. His initial tenure in Serie A proved challenging as he sought to adapt to the league. Following his time in Italy, he entered the Spanish football system, where he spent the vast majority of his career. Loan spells at Albacete, Levante, and Racing de Santander allowed him to refine his striking abilities in diverse competitive environments.
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In 2012, Stuani signed a four-year contract with Espanyol, where he became a key attacking presence, netting 12 goals in his final season. By 2015, he transferred to Middlesbrough in England. During his time there, his performances were instrumental in the team's promotion to the Premier League, notably scoring a decisive goal against Brighton & Hove Albion. He subsequently made his mark in the English top flight by scoring a brace against Sunderland in his debut match in the competition.
Impact at Girona and International Play
Stuani joined Girona in 2017, where he became the club's all-time top scorer in the top tier and earned two Segunda División top scorer titles. His performance with the club helped secure qualification for the 2024–25 Champions League. In September 2024, he became the oldest outfield player to start a match in the competition's league phase. Internationally, he made his debut for Uruguay in 2012 and represented the nation across two World Cups and three Copa América tournaments.
Fast facts
- Born: 1986, Tala, Uruguay
- Citizenship: Uruguay, Italy
- Professional debut: Danubio
- International debut: 14 November 2012
- Primary position: Striker
- Champions League record: Oldest outfield starter (37 years, 342 days)
- Significant clubs: Reggina, Espanyol, Middlesbrough, Girona
Questions readers ask
Which international tournaments has Stuani played in?
He has represented Uruguay in two World Cups and three Copa América tournaments.
What is his connection to Italian football?
Beyond holding an Italian passport, he played for the Serie A club Reggina between 2008 and 2012.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
