Hernán Crespo

Hernán Crespo is an Argentine professional footballer, born on July 5, 1975, in Florida, Buenos Aires. He is widely regarded as one of the most prolific strikers of his generation. Crespo began his professional career with River Plate before moving to Parma in 1996, where he won multiple titles, including the Coppa Italia and the UEFA Cup.

Crespo is known for his clinical finishing, speed, strength, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, and holds multiple records, such as being Parma's all-time top foreign goalscorer.

Off the field, Crespo is also recognized for his coaching career, leading youth teams and clubs in Argentina.

River Plate

• Youth and Early Career: Crespo was born and raised in Buenos Aires and joined River Plate's youth academy. He made his first-team debut for River Plate in 1993.

Parma

• Early Success: Crespo signed with Parma in 1996. At Parma, he developed into one of the world's best strikers, winning the Coppa Italia, the UEFA Cup, and was the Serie A top scorer in 2001.

Lazio

• Record-breaking Transfer: In 2000, Crespo transferred to Lazio for what was then a world-record fee. Despite the club's financial struggles, he performed well and was a key player for the team.

Inter Milan

• New Challenges: Crespo joined Inter Milan in 2002 on loan, and later permanently, where he added two Serie A titles to his collection and continued to prove his goal-scoring prowess.

Chelsea

• Premier League Success: Crespo had a successful stint at Chelsea where he won a Premier League title and a League Cup. Despite difficulties settling in England, he proved crucial in many important matches for the club.

Return to Italy and Retirement

• Later Career: After his stint with Chelsea, Crespo returned to Italy and played for clubs like Milan and Genoa before retiring in 2012.

Argentina National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for Argentina in 1995.

Achievements:

• Copa America: Runners-up in 2004 and 2007.
• Olympic Silver Medal: 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
• Crespo is Argentina's third all-time top scorer and has represented the national team in three World Cups.

• Position: Primarily a striker, but also capable of playing as a second striker or winger.
• Skills: Known for his clinical finishing, speed, strength, and aerial ability. Crespo is celebrated for his versatility and ability to score with both feet.

• Family: Crespo has three children. He is married to Alessia Rossi Andra.
• Coaching: After retiring, Crespo became a football coach and managed clubs like Modena, Banfield and Defensa y Justicia.

• Hernán Crespo is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his determination and longevity in professional football. His impact on the sport and his status as a respected figure extend beyond the pitch, inspiring football fans and players around the world.

Most Goals in Serie A Season:

• 26 goals in 2000-2001 season

Most Goals for Parma:

• 94 goals in total

Most Goals for Argentina:

• Third highest goalscorer

Books

• Italian Football Hall of Fame: Information about Hernán Crespo’s achievements and career in Italy. Available at: http://www.figc.it/

Websites

• FIFA: Information about Hernán Crespo’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fifa.com
• Inter Milan: Details about Crespo’s career at Inter Milan. Available at: https://www.inter.it
• Chelsea: Updates on Crespo’s performance and records at Chelsea. Available at: https://www.chelseafc.com
• UEFA: Updates and records of Crespo in UEFA competitions. Available at: https://www.uefa.com

Articles

• BBC Sport: Hernán Crespo: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football
• The Guardian: Hernán Crespo’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/football/hernan-crespo