This article will tell you about the career highlights of Man Utd legend Antonio Valencia
Antonio Valencia is a retired Ecuadorian professional footballer who played primarily as a right winger, but could also play as a right-back. Over the course of his career, he played for a number of clubs.
The clubs he played for include El Nacional, Villarreal, Wigan Athletic, Manchester United, and LDU Quit.
Valencia had a successful career, winning numerous titles and earning the respect of fans and players alike. His legacy as one of the best Ecuadorian footballers of all time is secure, and he will be remembered as a true ambassador for the sport.
Career Overview
Valencia began his career in Ecuador with El Nacional, where he played from 2001 to 2005. During his time with the club, he helped them win the Ecuadorian Serie A title in 2005, and his performances earned him a move to Spain, where he signed with Villarreal.
After just one season with Villarreal, Valencia was signed by English club Wigan Athletic, where he spent three seasons from 2006 to 2009. While at Wigan, he became a fan favorite, and helped the club avoid relegation during his first season.
His performances caught the eye of Manchester United, who signed him in the summer of 2009.
Valencia spent 10 seasons at Manchester United, becoming a key player for the club and helping them win numerous titles, including two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two League Cups, and the UEFA Europa League.
He was also named Manchester United’s Player of the Year for the 2011-2012 season, and was a runner-up for the award on three other occasions.
Also Read: Antonio Valencia’s All Time Premier League Stats
During his time at Manchester United, Valencia established himself as one of the best wingers in the world, known for his pace, power, and ability to beat defenders. He was also praised for his work ethic and versatility, and was often used as a right-back when needed.
In total, he made 339 appearances for the club, scoring 25 goals and providing 62 assists.
In 2019, Valencia returned to Ecuador to sign with LDU Quito, the club where he began his career. He spent one season with the club before announcing his retirement from football in May 2020.
Throughout his career, Valencia was also a regular for the Ecuadorian national team, earning 99 caps and scoring 11 goals. He represented his country in three World Cup tournaments (2006, 2014, and 2018), as well as several Copa America tournaments.
Life After Retirement
Off the field, Valencia was known for his charitable work, particularly in Ecuador, where he established the Antonio Valencia Foundation to help disadvantaged children. He was also praised for his professionalism and leadership, and was often cited as a role model for young players.
Awards & Achievements
During his career, Antonio Valencia won several trophies with the clubs he played for:
El Nacional:
- Ecuadorian Serie A: 2005
Manchester United:
- Premier League: 2010-11, 2012-13
- FA Cup: 2015-16
- League Cup: 2009-10, 2016-17
- UEFA Europa League: 2016-17
- FA Community Shield: 2010, 2011, 2013
Valencia was also a runner-up in several competitions during his career, including the 2006 Copa Libertadores with El Nacional.
He was also the runner-up in 2008 League Cup with Wigan Athletic, the 2010-11 UEFA Champions League with Manchester United, and the 2011 Copa America with the Ecuadorian national team.
