Gerardo Martino holds the distinct record of 505 appearances for Newell’s Old Boys, the club where he spent the majority of his professional playing career. Born in Valparaíso on 20 November 1962, the Argentine has since transitioned into a career as a high-profile association football manager across various domestic leagues and international national teams.
Early Career and Playing Years
Martino played professionally from 1980 to 1996, primarily operating as an attacking midfielder. His most significant tenure occurred at his hometown club, Newell's Old Boys in Rosario, where he helped the team secure three Argentine Primera titles during the 1987–88, 1990–91, and 1992 Clausura seasons. Beyond his time in Argentina, he briefly ventured into European football with CD Tenerife in 1991, making 15 appearances and scoring one goal. His domestic journey also included a spell at Lanús between 1994 and 1995, and his career eventually concluded with stints at O'Higgins in Chile and Barcelona SC in Ecuador.
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The transition to coaching began with significant success in the Paraguayan league, where Martino earned four titles between 2002 and 2006. This performance led to his appointment as the head coach of the Paraguay national football team in February 2007. Under his guidance, the squad reached the quarter-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Although he initially intended to step down after that tournament, he remained in the position until 2011, leading the team to a runner-up finish in that year's Copa América.
European and International Tenure
In 2013, Martino took over as head coach of Barcelona, replacing Tito Vilanova. His tenure saw him become the first coach in the club’s history to remain unbeaten for his first 16 matches, though he departed after one season following a runner-up finish in both the Copa del Rey and La Liga. Subsequently, he managed the Argentina national team, reaching the finals of both the 2015 Copa América and the 2016 Copa América Centenario. He resigned from the national post on 5 July 2016.
MLS and Mexico
He secured an MLS Cup victory in his second season and was awarded MLS Coach of the Year before taking charge of the Mexico national team. He left that post after the 2024 season, returning to Atlanta United in November 2025 on a two-year contract.
Fast facts
- Born: 20 November 1962, Valparaíso
- Playing Position: Attacking midfielder
- Club Record: 505 appearances for Newell’s Old Boys
- Barcelona Tenure: 2013–2014 season
- MLS Coach of the Year: Received while managing Atlanta United
- International Coaching: Paraguay, Argentina, and Mexico
- Languages: Spanish
- Inter Miami Departure: After the 2024 season
Questions readers ask
How many games did Martino play for Newell’s Old Boys?
He played a total of 505 matches in all official competitions for the club.
Which major clubs has Martino managed?
He has served as head coach for Barcelona, Atlanta United, and Inter Miami.
