A skilled midfielder who played for Tottenham Hotspur and the Argentina national team, known for his exceptional dribbling skills and scoring crucial goals in big games.
Ricardo Villa, or Ricky Villa as he's more commonly known, is an Argentine football coach and former professional midfielder who made waves in the football world with his impressive skills and iconic goals. He's most famously known for his time playing for Tottenham Hotspur and being part of the Argentine team that won the 1978 FIFA World Cup.
Villa was born on August 18, 1952, in Roque Pérez, Buenos Aires, Argentina. He began his football career in the 1970s, playing for Quilmes, Atlético de Tucumán, and Racing Club before making his mark on the international scene.
His big break came when he was signed by Tottenham Hotspur in 1978, alongside fellow Argentine Ossie Ardiles, after impressing in the World Cup. Villa's debut for Spurs was a memorable one, scoring against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. He went on to score a total of 25 goals in 179 appearances for the club, including the winning goal in the 1981 FA Cup Final replay against Manchester City, which earned him the Wembley goal of the century award in 2001.
Villa's success wasn't limited to his club career. He was a member of the Argentine team that won the 1978 FIFA World Cup, making two appearances as a substitute in the second round. This achievement earned him a World Cup winner's medal, along with his teammates, in 2007.
After retiring from professional football, Villa went on to pursue a career in politics during the 1990s. He later became the technical secretary of Talleres de Córdoba in 2005. Villa has also been involved in various charity matches and events, including the 1991 edition of the World Cup of Masters, where he represented Argentina and scored against England.
Villa currently resides in Villa Carlos Paz with his wife and four children. He has remained involved in the football community, attending events and sharing his expertise with younger generations.
Ricardo Villa's legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of football, and his iconic goals and achievements will forever be remembered as some of the most memorable moments in the sport's history.
68 Years Old
A former England national team player and manager, known for his exceptional skills on the pitch and later, his tactical acumen as a coach. He led the Three Lions to the 1998 World Cup.
73 Years Old
A legendary footballer and coach who won numerous titles, including the 1978 World Cup, and is known for his innovative tactics and leadership style.
71 Years Old
A legendary striker and manager, known for his impressive goal-scoring skills and leading Argentina to World Cup victory in 1978.
75 Years Old
A legendary goalkeeper and coach who led Argentina to World Cup victory in 1978 and is revered for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping abilities. He's a national hero and a symbol of Argentine football pride.
73 Years Old
A legendary midfielder and manager, known for his creative playing style and iconic 1978 World Cup victory with Argentina. He later managed several clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur.
