David Marcelo Pizarro Cortez, a central midfielder from Valparaíso, Chile, concluded a twenty-year professional football career in 2018. Known by the nickname Pek for his 1.68-metre stature, he garnered a reputation for vision, precise passing, and technical command while competing across top-tier leagues in Italy, England, and his home country throughout the early twenty-first century.
Early Career and Move to Europe
Pizarro began his professional journey with Santiago Wanderers in his hometown. Following his promotion to the first team in 1997, he transitioned to the Italian Serie A with Udinese. During his tenure at the club, he spent a brief loan spell at Universidad de Chile in 2001 before establishing himself as a permanent fixture in the Udinese midfield for five seasons.
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In 2005, Pizarro transferred to Inter Milan for a reported €10 million fee. His time in Milan yielded a Serie A title, a Coppa Italia, and a Supercoppa Italiana. In 2006, he moved to Roma, reuniting with manager Luciano Spalletti. Over several years in Rome, he secured further domestic honors, including two Coppa Italia titles, and became a consistent presence in both league and UEFA Champions League fixtures.
English Premier League and Return to Chile
In early 2012, Pizarro joined Manchester City on loan under the guidance of Roberto Mancini. He became the first Chilean player to represent the club, making five appearances during their 2011–12 Premier League title-winning campaign. Following a subsequent three-year spell at Fiorentina and a return to Santiago Wanderers, he finished his career at Universidad de Chile, playing his final match in December 2018.
International Representation
Pizarro debuted for the Chile national team in 1999 and contributed to the squad that earned a bronze medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics. After a self-imposed eight-year absence from international duty beginning in 2005, he returned in 2013 under coach Jorge Sampaoli. He was a member of the Chilean team that secured victory in the 2015 Copa América.
Fast facts
- Born: 11 September 1979, Valparaíso
- Height: 1.68 metres
- Position: Central midfielder
- International debut: 1999
- 2000 Olympic achievement: Bronze medal
- Retirement announcement: November 2018
- Final club: Universidad de Chile
Questions readers ask
Did David Pizarro win the Premier League?
He was part of the Manchester City squad that won the 2011–12 Premier League title, although he did not make enough appearances to receive a winners' medal.
Why did he retire from the national team in 2005?
Pizarro cited disagreements with the national coach and association president, concerns regarding the players' motivations, and a desire to spend more time with his family.
