Edinson Roberto Cavani Gómez established a career as a high-scoring striker through prolific spells in both Italian Serie A and French Ligue 1. Often identified by the nickname El Matador, he earned recognition for his movement off the ball, technical finishing, and a consistent work ethic that allowed him to secure over one hundred goals across two of Europe's top five leagues.
Early Career and Palermo
Born in Salto in 1987, Cavani began his professional journey with Danubio in Montevideo. Following a strong showing at the 2007 South American Youth Championship, he moved to Italian side Palermo. He made his debut in March 2007 against Fiorentina, scoring a late equaliser. By the 2008-09 season, he secured a regular spot in the starting lineup and netted 14 goals, which helped solidify his professional reputation.
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In 2010, Cavani joined Napoli for a total fee of 17 million euros. His attacking partnership with Ezequiel Lavezzi and Marek Hamšík led media to label the trio The Three Tenors. During his time in Naples, he set a club record for league goals in a single season with 25 strikes in 2010-11 and played a key role in winning the 2012 Coppa Italia.
French Success with Paris Saint-Germain
Cavani transferred to Paris Saint-Germain in 2013 for 64 million euros, then the highest fee in French football history. He claimed six Ligue 1 titles during his tenure and became the club's all-time top goalscorer. In 2017, he was named the Ligue 1 Player of the Year after scoring 35 league goals. His later career included stints at Manchester United, Valencia, and Boca Juniors.
International Participation
Representing his home nation, Cavani earned 136 caps and recorded 58 international goals. He competed in ten major tournaments, including four FIFA World Cups and five editions of the Copa América. He was a member of the Uruguay squad that won the 2011 Copa América. In 2018, he received the Golden Foot award for his contributions to the sport.
Fast facts
- Born: 1987, Salto
- Full name: Edinson Roberto Cavani Gómez
- International goals: 58
- International caps: 136
- Golden Foot award: 2018
- Primary position: Striker
Questions readers ask
Which international titles did Cavani win?
He was part of the Uruguay squad that won the 2011 Copa América title.
What was his transfer record in France?
In 2013, he joined Paris Saint-Germain for 64 million euros, which was the most expensive signing in French football history at that time.
Achievements
- Competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics
- 2010 FIFA World Cup
- 2014 FIFA World Cup
