A Colombian midfielder who played for clubs like Boca Juniors and River Plate, known for his skills and goalscoring ability from midfield.
Mauricio Serna, affectionately known as "Chicho", is a Colombian former professional footballer who made a lasting impact on the sport with his exceptional skills and charismatic style of play. During his illustrious career, he played for top-tier clubs like Boca Juniors, Atlético Nacional, and Deportivo Pereira, earning 51 caps for the Colombia national team between 1993 and 2001.
Serna's remarkable journey began in his native Medellín, Colombia, where he developed a passion for football at a young age. His impressive performances at the club level earned him a call-up to the Colombia national team, with which he participated in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. During his time at Boca Juniors, Serna played 96 league games, scoring two goals and winning the hearts of the fans with his compelling style of play.
Serna's club career spanned over a decade, with stints at notable clubs like Puebla F.C. in Mexico, Chacarita Juniors in Argentina, and Talleres Córdoba in Argentina. His most memorable spell was at Boca Juniors, where he became a fan favorite, earning the chant "Chicho, Chicho, Chicho" from the adoring crowd.
After hanging up his boots, Serna remained involved in the football world, taking on a role at Boca Juniors as a link between the Soccer Council and the coaches of the club's youth department in February 2021. However, his post-playing career has been marred by controversies, including allegations of defrauding young soccer players and involvement in drug trafficking and money laundering schemes.
In 2015, Serna was publicly accused of defrauding young soccer players by promising them signings with Argentine clubs, only to demand commissions for the supposed deals. The allegations led to further scrutiny, and in 2018, a court in Buenos Aires linked him to crimes of drug trafficking and money laundering. In 2019, he was accused by a drug trafficker of committing money laundering through real estate deals in Argentina.
Despite the controversies that have surrounded him in recent years, Mauricio Serna's contributions to Colombian football cannot be overlooked. His exceptional skills and captivating style of play earned him a special place in the hearts of fans, and his experience at the highest level has inspired generations of footballers in Colombia.
Today, Serna's legacy serves as a reminder that even the most talented individuals can face challenges and controversies, but it is how they respond to these setbacks that truly defines their character. As a historical figure, Serna's story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of integrity and accountability in the world of sports.
60 Years Old
A flamboyant goalkeeper famous for his unconventional playing style, including his tendency to venture out of the penalty area and participate in midfield play. He's also known for his iconic scorpion kick clearance in a 1995 friendly against England.
65 Years Old
A flamboyant and skilled midfielder, known for his exceptional ball control, vision, and iconic blonde afro, leading Colombia to the 1990 World Cup Round of 16.
56 Years Old
A Colombian footballer and coach who played for top-tier clubs like Newcastle United and Parma, scoring crucial goals in the 1990s, and later managed several teams.
59 Years Old
Colombian defender whose own goal in the 1994 World Cup led to his tragic murder, becoming an enduring symbol of the darker side of football fandom.
58 Years Old
A prolific goal-scorer, known for his speed, skill, and clinical finishing, earning him the nickname "El Tren" (The Train) during his playing days.
