A Costa Rican footballer and manager who played for several clubs and the national team, and later coached various teams, including the Costa Rican national team. He's known for his skills on the field and his contributions to Costa Rican football.
Rnald Gmez, affectionately known as "La Bala" (The Bullet), is a retired Costa Rican football forward and current manager of Liga Nacional club Achuapa. With a storied career spanning over two decades, Gmez is revered as one of Costa Rica's finest forwards, celebrated for his lightning-fast shots and exceptional dribbling skills.
Born on January 24, 1975, in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, Gmez was the 12th child of Francisca Gmez. He grew up in the village of Pilas de Canjel in Guanacaste Province, where his passion for football flourished. Gmez began his professional career at Carmelita, scoring his first league goal on September 20, 1992, against Saprissa.
His impressive form at Alajuelense, where he netted 45 goals, caught the attention of international clubs. Gmez went on to play in six different countries, including Spain, Guatemala, Greece, Kuwait, Mexico, and Cyprus. One of his most notable stints was with Saprissa, where he won four national championships and a CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Gmez made his debut for Costa Rica in a February 1993 UNCAF Nations Cup qualification match against Nicaragua. Over the course of his illustrious international career, he earned 93 caps, scoring 26 goals. Alongside Paulo Wanchope, Gmez is the top scorer for Costa Rica in the FIFA World Cup, with three goals to his name.
Gmez's remarkable career has inspired generations of Costa Rican footballers. His dedication, skill, and perseverance have cemented his status as a legend in Costa Rican football.
After retiring from professional football, Gmez ventured into management. He has since managed Carmelita, Santos, and currently, Achuapa in the Liga Nacional. Gmez's experience and knowledge of the game have made him a respected figure in Costa Rican football circles.
Rnald Gmez's enduring legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of football. His remarkable achievements on the pitch, combined with his dedication to the sport, have solidified his position as one of Costa Rica's most beloved and revered football legends.
40 Years Old
Costa Rican midfielder who played for Fulham and Sporting CP, known for his exceptional dribbling skills and goal-scoring ability.
33 Years Old
Costa Rican forward who played for top-tier clubs like Arsenal and Real Betis, known for his pace and skill on the wing.
39 Years Old
Costa Rican goalkeeper who played for top-tier clubs like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, known for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping ability.
44 Years Old
Costa Rican striker who played for clubs like Saprissa and Real Salt Lake, scoring crucial goals in international tournaments. He's a national hero in Costa Rica for his contributions to the country's football success.
51 Years Old
A Costa Rican footballer and manager who played for several clubs and the national team, earning 137 caps, and later coached various teams in Central America. He's a national football legend.
43 Years Old
Costa Rican goalkeeper who played for Deportivo Saprissa and the national team, known for his impressive saves and leadership during the 2002 and 2006 World Cups .
46 Years Old
Costa Rican defender who played for clubs like Deportivo Saprissa and won several national championships, also representing his country in two World Cups.
