Giovani dos Santos Ramírez began his professional football journey at Barcelona, where he emerged from the La Masia academy to debut for the senior squad in 2007.
Early Development and Barcelona
Born on 11 May 1989 in Monterrey, Mexico, Dos Santos moved to Spain at age 13 to join Barcelona. He progressed through the youth ranks, notably helping the Juvenil A team secure a national title. In 2006, he gained experience with the senior squad during pre-season tours and made his competitive debut against Athletic Bilbao on 2 September 2007. His final appearance for the club in the 2007-08 season saw him score a hat-trick against Real Murcia.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →English Tenure and European Loans
In June 2008, Dos Santos transferred to Tottenham Hotspur for an initial fee of €6 million. While he scored in the UEFA Cup against Shakhtar Donetsk, his time in London was marked by frequent loan spells. He spent time at Ipswich Town, where he netted four goals in eight appearances, followed by stints at Galatasaray and Racing de Santander. During his time in Spain with Racing, he contributed five goals in his 16 appearances.
International Representation
Dos Santos was a consistent presence for the Mexico national team. He won the 2005 FIFA U-17 World Championship in Peru and made his senior team debut in 2007. Over his career, he represented Mexico in the 2010, 2014, and 2018 FIFA World Cups. Additionally, he secured three CONCACAF Gold Cup titles in 2009, 2011, and 2015, while also earning a gold medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Later Club Career
Following his exit from Tottenham in 2012, Dos Santos joined Mallorca, where he played 29 matches and scored 10 goals. His subsequent career included spells at Villarreal, LA Galaxy, and finally Club América. Throughout his professional life, he operated primarily as a versatile forward, filling roles as an attacking midfielder, secondary striker, and winger.
Fast facts
- Born: 11 May 1989
- Birthplace: Monterrey, Mexico
- International Debut: 9 September 2007
- Barcelona Debut: 2007
- Tottenham Transfer: 2008
- Olympic Gold Medal: 2012
- CONCACAF Gold Cup Wins: 2009, 2011, 2015
Questions readers ask
Which major tournaments did Dos Santos play in for Mexico?
He competed in the 2010, 2014, and 2018 FIFA World Cups, as well as the 2013 and 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup.
What was his role at the 2012 Summer Olympics?
He was a member of the Mexico squad that won the gold medal in London.
