Javier Pedro Saviola Fernández, known as El Conejo, emerged from the Club Atlético River Plate academy to debut professionally in 1998 at age sixteen. The Buenos Aires native quickly established himself as a prolific forward, earning the 1999 South American Footballer of the Year award before launching an extensive European career that spanned top leagues in Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, and Greece.
Early Career and Barcelona
Saviola helped River Plate secure the 1999 Apertura and 2000 Clausura championships. In 2001, he transferred to Barcelona for £15 million. During his initial season at the Camp Nou, he scored 17 league goals. Following loans to Monaco and Sevilla, where he won the UEFA Cup, he returned to Barcelona for the 2006–07 season. By 2004, he had obtained Spanish citizenship to assist with team registration requirements.
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In 2007, Real Madrid signed the forward to a three-year contract. His time at the club was defined by limited playing opportunities and sporadic appearances, resulting in five goals across 28 total matches. He moved to Benfica in 2009 for a €5 million fee. His stint in Portugal was marked by a productive partnership with Óscar Cardozo, contributing to a league title win.
Later Professional Years
Saviola joined Málaga in 2012, scoring in the club's inaugural Champions League group stage appearance. He subsequently signed with Greek side Olympiacos in 2013 and joined Serie A club Hellas Verona in 2014. Following his departure from professional football, he transitioned into coaching and futsal, winning the Andorran futsal league with Encamp in 2018.
International Representation
An Argentine international for seven years, Saviola represented his country at the 2004 Copa América, where the team reached the final. He also participated in the 2006 World Cup. In 2004, he was named by Pelé to the FIFA 100 list, a selection of 125 of the greatest living footballers.
Fast facts
- Born: 11 December 1981, Buenos Aires
- Citizenship: Argentina, Spain
- Nickname: El Conejo
- Professional Debut: 1998
- Retirement Age: 34
- Major European Trophy: UEFA Cup
- Andorran Futsal League Title: 2018
Questions readers ask
Did Javier Saviola play for both Barcelona and Real Madrid?
Yes, he played for Barcelona from 2001 to 2007 and for Real Madrid from 2007 to 2009.
What is Javier Saviola's current occupation?
Following his professional football career, he has worked as an assistant coach in Andorra and as a futsal player.
