Rafael Márquez Explained

Rafael Márquez
Full Name:Rafael Márquez Álvarez[1]
Birth Date:13 February 1979
Birth Place:Zamora, Michoacán, Mexico
Height:1.84 m
Position:Centre-back, defensive midfielder
Youthyears1:1992–1996
Youthclubs1:Atlas
Years1:1996–1999
Clubs1:Atlas
Caps1:77
Goals1:6
Years2:1999–2003
Clubs2:Monaco
Caps2:110
Goals2:5
Years3:2003–2010
Clubs3:Barcelona
Caps3:163
Goals3:9
Years4:2010–2012
Clubs4:New York Red Bulls
Caps4:44
Goals4:1
Years5:2012–2014
Clubs5:León
Caps5:50
Goals5:1
Years6:2014–2015
Clubs6:Hellas Verona
Caps6:35
Goals6:0
Years7:2016–2018
Clubs7:Atlas
Caps7:58
Goals7:1
Totalcaps:516
Totalgoals:23
Manageryears1:2021
Managerclubs1:Alcalá (youth)
Manageryears2:2022–2024
Managerclubs2:Barcelona Atlètic
Manageryears3:2024–
Managerclubs3:Mexico (assistant)
Currentclub:Mexico (assistant)
Nationalyears1:1999
Nationalteam1:Mexico U20
Nationalcaps1:4
Nationalgoals1:2
Nationalyears2:1997–2018
Nationalteam2:Mexico
Nationalcaps2:147
Nationalgoals2:17

Rafael Márquez Álvarez (pronounced as /es/; born 13 February 1979) is a Mexican football coach and former player who played as a defender. He is currently the assistant coach of the Mexico national team. Nicknamed El Káiser,[2] he is regarded as the best defender in Mexico's history and one of the best Mexican players of all time.[3] [4] [5]

Márquez began his career with Atlas in 1996, playing in over 70 games with the club before moving to France in 1999 with Monaco, where he won a Ligue 1 title. In 2003, Márquez joined Barcelona, becoming the first ever Mexican to represent the club. He would go on to play in over 240 games during seven seasons with the Blaugrana and win numerous honors, including four La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions League titles. In 2006, he became the first Mexican player to win the Champions League when Barcelona defeated Arsenal in the final. In 2010, Márquez joined Major League Soccer club New York Red Bulls. After being released from the club in 2012, he returned to his native Mexico, this time to play for León,[6] captaining the team to back-to-back Liga MX titles in 2013 and 2014. Márquez then transferred to Hellas Verona of the Italian Serie A.[7] He returned to his boyhood club Atlas in 2015, and announced his retirement from football in April 2018.

Márquez is the fourth most-capped player in the history of the Mexico national football team, earning 147 caps throughout his career. In 2018, he became only the fourth player to play for his national team in five consecutive editions of the FIFA World Cup, alongside compatriot Antonio Carbajal, Lothar Matthäus, and Gianluigi Buffon, appearing in the 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018 tournaments.[8] He is also the Mexican player with the most World Cup matches played with 19.[9] With the national team, Márquez won the 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup, and the 2003 and 2011 editions of the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Club career

Atlas

Márquez began his career with Atlas, making his debut in October 1996 at only 17 years of age. Márquez rose to prominence while with Atlas, making 77 appearances for the team and being runner-up in the league, losing the final against Toluca on penalties during the Verano 1999 tournament.[10]

Monaco

After playing the 1999 Copa América with Mexico, Márquez joined French club Monaco for a reported US$6 million.[11] He made his debut on 14 August against Bastia. In his first season, Monaco won the Ligue 1 (then known as the French Division 1) title, with Márquez being named in the league's Team of the Season. He went on to play in 109 matches with Monaco over four seasons, winning the Coupe de la Ligue as well.[12]

Barcelona

In the summer of 2003, Márquez signed for Spanish club Barcelona.[13] He made his debut in La Liga on 3 September 2003 against Sevilla, the match ending in a 1–1 draw. On 9 November, he scored his first goal for Barcelona in their 2–1 victory over Real Betis.[14] In his first season with Barcelona, Márquez made 22 league appearances (31 across all competitions) as the team finished second in the league, five points behind Valencia.

During his second season, he was moved from his natural position as a centre-back to a defensive midfield role, due to injuries to players Thiago Motta, Edmílson and Gerard. That year, Barcelona won its 17th league title on 14 May 2005 after a 1–1 tie with Levante. A month after an injury to his left knee, Márquez returned to play against A.C. Milan in the first leg of the 2006 UEFA Champions League semi-final. Barcelona, playing away at the San Siro, won 1–0. On 17 May, Barcelona won the UEFA Champions League after defeating Arsenal 2–1 in the final, with Márquez playing the entire match. He became the first Mexican to play in a Champions League final and the first to win it. Following his participation with Mexico at the 2006 World Cup, Márquez signed a four-year contract extension with Barcelona, with the buy-out clause set at €100 million.[15]

During the 2007–08 season, Márquez formed a partnership with new signing Gabriel Milito while captain Carles Puyol was out injured. Constant injuries, however, threw off his form. Márquez's success declined with the rest of the season, leading Barcelona to end up in third place in La Liga after a miserable second half where injuries lead to his contribution being negligible. Even so, new coach Pep Guardiola continued to rely on his contributions; with the departure of Ronaldinho, Márquez had become the last original signing of the Frank Rijkaard era to remain on the team. In October 2007, Márquez was included in the list of players nominated for the FIFA World Player of the Year award, the only player from the CONCACAF to be nominated.[16]

Márquez was Guardiola's first-choice at centre-back along with captain Puyol for the 2008–09 season. On 13 December 2008, Márquez played his 200th match for Barcelona in their 2–0 win against Real Madrid.[17] On 28 April 2009, during Barcelona's 2008–09 Champions League semi-final match against Chelsea, Márquez sustained a knee injury which required surgery, meaning he would miss the remainder of the season.[18] Barcelona would go on to complete a historic treble after winning the Champions League final 2–0 against Manchester United.

Prior to the 2009–10 season, Márquez received an offer from Italian Serie A club Fiorentina.[19]

Notes and References

  1. News: FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 presented by Toyota: List of Players. https://web.archive.org/web/20120902182958/http://www.fifa.com/mm/document/tournament/competition/95/12/84/fcwc_2009_squadlists.pdf . dead . 2 September 2012 . FIFA. 5. 9 December 2009. 29 March 2020.
  2. Web site: Meet the Confed Cup captains. https://web.archive.org/web/20170617163312/http://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/news/y=2017/m=6/news=a-closer-look-at-the-confed-cup-captains-2895407.html. dead. 17 June 2017. FIFA.com. 17 June 2017. 18 June 2017. When you think about El Tri's captain, you don't have to look further than No4 [Rafael Márquez]. The only player in history to have captained his side in four consecutive FIFA World Cups™, 'El Káiser' will be wearing the armband once again in Russia.. Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).
  3. News: Rafael Márquez – Los 10 mejores futbolistas mexicanos de la historia . Rafael Márquez – The 10 best Mexican footballers in history . Marca . es.
  4. News: Rafael Márquez, la resurrección del Kaiser mexicano. 1 July 2014. Zócalo Saltillo. June 2014. es. 20 February 2015. https://web.archive.org/web/20150220144835/http://www.zocalo.com.mx/seccion/articulo/rafael-marquez-la-resurreccion-del-kaiser-mexicano-1402409953. dead.
  5. News: Keh. Andrew. Despite a Wayward Journey, Márquez Is a Rock for Mexico. 1 July 2014. The New York Times. 16 June 2014.
  6. Web site: Rafa Márquez es el nuevo refuerzo de León. 13 December 2012 . MedioTiempo.com. 30 July 2014.
  7. Web site: El Tri captain Rafa Marquez heads back to Europe with transfer to Serie A side Hellas Verona. MLSSoccer.com. 14 August 2014.
  8. News: Mexico's Rafa Marquez becomes third man to play at five World Cups . 17 June 2018 . ESPN FC . 17 June 2018.
  9. Web site: Rafael Márquez – FIFA competition record . https://web.archive.org/web/20190505005806/https://static.fifa.com/fifa-tournaments/players-coaches/people=178119/index.html . dead . 5 May 2019 . FIFA.
  10. Web site: Rafael Marquez. espnfc.com . ESPN . 12 June 2014 .
  11. Web site: El Mónaco ficha un mexicano . . Monaco signs a Mexican . es . 11 August 1999.
  12. Web site: Rafa Márquez y su buen recuerdo del Mónaco . AS.com . 18 May 2017 . es . 18 May 2017.
  13. Web site: Polo. F.. Villarrubia. B.. ¡Hola Márquez! . . es . 8 June 2003.
  14. Web site: Ortiz. Fabián. Marcó Kluivert y sentenció Márquez . AS.com . 10 November 2003. es . 10 November 2003.
  15. Web site: Márquez signs new deal . Eurosport . 27 June 2006 . 28 June 2006.
  16. Web site: Rafa Márquez candidato al mejor del año . 11 October 2007 . El Siglo de Torreón . es . 11 October 2007.
  17. Web site: Segura. Anna. Márquez, el mejor día para hacer 200 partidos . FC Barcelona . es . 14 December 2008.
  18. Web site: Stephen. Crawford. Barcelona Defender Rafael Marquez Out for the Season. Goal.com. 28 April 2009. Barcelona centre-back Rafael Marquez has been ruled out for the rest of the season after suffering a knee injury in Tuesday night's Champions League clash with Chelsea.. 27 July 2009.
  19. Web site: Marquez nears return. The World Game. SBS. 30 April 2014. It would be my wish to retire at Barca. I'm very calm with regards the contract renewal. I know that we will arrive at an agreement, so it's only a question of time.. 21 April 2020.
  20. Web site: Marquez signs new Barca deal. Ontheminute.com. 30 November 2009. 21 April 2020.
  21. News: Barcelona release Mexico captain Marquez. Reuters News. Silva. Jorge. 31 July 2010. 21 April 2020.
  22. Web site: Adeu al viute estranger amb mes partits. https://archive.today/20120729230429/http://www.fcbarcelona.cat/web/english/noticies/futbol/temporada10-11/08/01/n100731112233.html. dead. 29 July 2012. fcbarcelona.cat. 1 August 2010. 11 October 2010.
  23. Web site: Márquez, Chicharito, Sánchez: CONCACAF's European stars. UEFA. 20 January 2016. 27 March 2016.
  24. Web site: Chicharito, el mexicano con más partidos en Champions League . Goal.com . es . 21 February 2017.
  25. Web site: Landolina. Salvatore. Juventus Monitor Barcelona Defender Rafael Marquez. Goal.com. 27 November 2015. 2 December 2015.
  26. Web site: New York Red Bulls sign Mexico National Team captain Rafa Marquez. New York Red Bulls. 1 August 2010. 5 August 2010. https://web.archive.org/web/20100805000842/http://www.newyorkredbulls.com/news/2010/08/new-york-red-bulls-sign-mexican-national-team-captain-rafa-marquez. dead.
  27. Web site: Red Bulls Beat Revs, Clinch Eastern Conference. Major League Soccer. 22 October 2010. https://web.archive.org/web/20101023070503/http://www.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter-recap/red-bulls-beat-revs-clinch-eastern-conference. 23 October 2010. dead.
  28. http://www.newyorkredbulls.com/news/2012/12/defender-rafa-marquez-released-new-york-red-bulls Defender Rafa Marquez Released by
  29. News: Isola. Frank. Rafa Marquez continues tradition of throwing cheap shots at American players. 30 July 2014. Goal.com. 30 October 2011.
  30. Web site: Parker. Graham. Was Rafael Márquez the worst ever MLS designated player?. The Guardian. 13 December 2012 . 13 December 2012.
  31. Web site: Márquez considera que el Mundial de Brasil será el más complicado. 21 May 2014 . ESPN Deportes. 21 May 2014.
  32. Web site: Slane. Mike. Rafa Marquez signs with Leon. Goal.com . 1 May 2020.
  33. Web site: Terán. Juan Manuel. 15 December 2013. La Fiera logró rugido de Campeón. Medio Tiempo. 16 December 2013.
  34. Web site: León Rugió en el Estadio Azteca y es Campeón de la Liga BBVA Bancomer. Liga MX official website. es. 15 December 2013. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20140227191019/http://www.ligamx.net/home/noticia.html?id=6190. 27 February 2014.
  35. Web site: Ramos Villegrana. Rafael. Rafa Márquez: Architect of his utopias. 7 August 2014. ESPN. 1 May 2020.
  36. News: Transfer news: Hellas Verona have secured the services of Rafael Marquez. 19 October 2014. Sky Sports News. 7 August 2014.
  37. News: Rafael Marquez Reveals Salary Cut to Join Hellas Verona. 19 October 2014. beIN Sports.
  38. News: Italian Serie A report: Verona held by Atalanta. 19 October 2014. Sky Sports News. 31 August 2014.
  39. Web site: Official: Marquez joines Atlas . Football Italia . 21 December 2015 . 21 December 2015.
  40. News: Mancera. Diego. Rafael Márquez se retira . Rafael Márquez to retire . El País . 19 April 2018 . es . 19 April 2018.
  41. News: Rafael Márquez Cerró su Carrera a Nivel de Clubes. es. Rafael Márquez finished his career at the club level. 28 April 2018. 28 April 2018.
  42. Web site: Los diez momentos en la carrera de Rafael Márquez . ESPN Deportes . 12 February 2017 . es . 14 February 2017.
  43. News: Argentina 2–1 Mexico (aet). BBC Sport. 24 June 2006.
  44. News: Dodd. Mike. U.S. continues dominance vs. Mexico in Gold Cup final. USA TODAY. 25 June 2007.
  45. News: Clarke. Raghavan. Liz. Sudarsan. World Cup 2010: Host South Africa tie Mexico,1–1, in opener. Washington Post. 12 June 2010.
  46. News: Glendenning. Barry. World Cup 2010: France v Mexico – as it happened. The Guardian. 17 June 2010.
  47. News: New York Red Bulls' Marquez triumphs in 100th Mexico cap . TribalFootball.com . 29 March 2011 . Andrew . Slevison . 10 October 2012.
  48. News: Sanghera. Mandeep. Croatia 1–3 Mexico . 23 June 2014. 24 June 2014. BBC.
  49. News: Torres. José Antonio . Rafael Márquez iguala a Cuauhtémoc Blanco al marcar en tres mundiales. 24 June 2014. 24 June 2014. es. El Mundo Deportivo.
  50. Web site: Perisco. Luca. 12 May 2015. Mexico Head Coach Miguel Herrera names 23 man squad for 2015 Copa América. sambafoot.com. 3 June 2015.
  51. Web site: Rodriguez. Alicia. Mexico struggle in 0–0 draw against Bolivia to open Copa America play. MLSSoccer.com. 12 June 2015.
  52. News: Mexico 3-1 Uruguay: Copa América – as it happened. The Guardian. 6 June 2016. Echegaray. Luis Miguel.
  53. Web site: Mexico survive scare to edge past New Zealand . 21 June 2017 . Eurosport . 21 June 2017.
  54. News: Selección Nacional on Twitter. Twitter. 4 June 2018. en.
  55. Web site: Statistics and Records – FIFA World Cup – Players. FIFA. 4 June 2018. https://web.archive.org/web/20181108042854/https://www.fifa.com/fifa-tournaments/statistics-and-records/worldcup/players/index.html. 8 November 2018. dead.
  56. Web site: Mexico's Rafa Marquez 'in great shape' after joining elite World Cup group . ESPN . 17 June 2018. 21 June 2018.
  57. Web site: Rafa Márquez y su amargo retiro del futbol. Milenio. 7 February 2018 . 2 July 2018.
  58. Web site: Rafael Marquez to take the role of sporting president at Atlas. FMF State of Mind. Rafael. Diaz. 10 July 2018. 7 August 2018.
  59. Web site: Rafa Marquez: Atlas DNA similar to that of Barcelona. ESPN. Tom. Marshall. 7 August 2018. 7 August 2018.
  60. Web site: Rafa Márquez anuncia que dejará de ser el director deportivo del Atlas . Economíahoy.mx . es . 13 May 2019.
  61. Web site: egonzalezd. 2021-10-31. Rafael Márquez, nuevo comentarista de TUDN para los partidos de la Selección Mexicana. 2022-02-14. Record.com.mx. es.
  62. Web site: Rafa Márquez se suma al proyecto de cantera de la RSD Alcalá . 14 July 2022 . RSD Alcalá . es.
  63. Web site: 8 April 2020 . Rafa Márquez returns to Spain... As a coach of Alcalá . 13 July 2022 . FC Barcelona Noticias.
  64. Web site: 14 July 2022 . Rafa Márquez appointed coach of Barça Atlétic . 14 July 2022 . FC Barcelona.
  65. Web site: Rafa Márquez to continue as coach of Barça Atlètic . FC Barcelona . 14 June 2023.
  66. Web site: Rafa Márquez, auxiliar de Selección Mexicana oficial. miseleccion. 22 July 2024.
  67. Web site: Rafa Marquez has retired but will he still play for Mexico at the World Cup? . ESPN FC . Marshall . Tom . 1 May 2018 . 17 May 2020 .
  68. Web site: Tactics Board: Alves, Marquez, Robben . ESPN FC . Jolly . Richard . 14 June 2014 . 17 May 2020 .
  69. Web site: Marquez closer to 5th World Cup after making preliminary Mexico squad . NBC Sports . 14 May 2018 . 17 May 2020 .
  70. News: A Tadpole in Rafa's Big Pond . The New York Times . Ream . Tim . 25 April 2011 . 16 May 2020 .
  71. News: Player ratings . The Guardian . Brodkin . Jon . 1 November 2006 . 17 May 2020 .
  72. News: Rafael Márquez, tendencia tras aparecer en once ideal del Barcelona . ESPN Deportes. es. 18 January 2024. 21 January 2024.
  73. http://www.tvyespectaculos.com/2007/11/15/adriana-lavat-y-rafa-marquez-firman-divorcio-por-separado Adriana Lavat y Rafa Márquez firman divorcio por separado
  74. https://web.archive.org/web/20090724042446/http://www.vefutbol.com.mx/notas/16792.html Jaydy Michel, blaugrana de corazón
  75. Web site: El perfil de cantera: Luis Alberto Márquez Quezada. 12 September 2012. Chivas.
  76. Web site: ASCENSO MX – Página Oficial de la Liga del Fútbol Profesional en México .: Bienvenido. LIGA MX / ASCENSO. MX. www.ascensomx.net. 13 January 2017. 13 January 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170113172349/http://www.ascensomx.net/cancha/jugador/79104/eyJpZENsdWIiOiAxMDQ0OH0=/luis-alberto-marquez-quezada. dead.
  77. Web site: FIFA 12 North American Cover Stars Revealed! . EA . Nemanja . Trapara . August 8, 2011 . May 1, 2020 . August 12, 2011 . https://web.archive.org/web/20110812035449/http://www.ea.com/news/fifa-12-na-cover-1 . live .
  78. https://fifpro.org/en/who-we-are/fifpro-members/mexican-union-amfpro-five-years-of-success-and-a-collective-agreement-in-its-sights/
  79. News: Mexico's Rafael Marquez among 22 sanctioned for drug trafficking ties. ESPNFC.com. 9 August 2017.
  80. Web site: Treasury Sanctions Longtime Mexican Drug Kingpin Raul Flores Hernandez and His Vast Network. United States Department of the Treasury. 9 August 2017. 9 August 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170813052500/https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/sm0144.aspx. 13 August 2017. dead.
  81. Web site: Draper. Kevin. Malkin. Elisabeth. Mexico's Rafael Márquez Accused of Aiding Drug Kingpin . The New York Times . 9 August 2017 . 9 August 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170819150724/https://mobile.nytimes.com/2017/08/09/sports/soccer/rafa-marquez-mexico-drugs.html . 19 August 2017 . dead .
  82. Web site: Soccer star Marquez, singer Alvarez among targets of sanctions for alleged drug ties . abc7.com . ABC . 9 August 2017 . 9 August 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170810052058/http://abc7.com/sports/soccer-star-marquez-singer-alvarez-sanctioned-for-alleged-drug-ties/2289974/ . 10 August 2017 . dead . dmy-all .
  83. Web site: Kingpin Act Designations; Counter Narcotics Designations Updates and Removals; Somalia Designation Update. 2022-02-14. U.S. Department of the Treasury. en.
  84. Web site: Rafael Márquez – National Football Teams. National Football Teams. 23 June 2018.
  85. Web site: Passo Alpuin . Luis Fernando . Rafael Márquez - Century of International Appearances . Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation.

  86. Web site: R. Márquez. Soccerway. 3 January 2016.
  87. Web site: Tecate Sports Awards are a Knockout! | MyBoxingFans - Boxing News . 7 July 2009 .
  88. Web site: Bryan Ruiz and Alex Morgan Named 2016 CONCACAF Players of the Year. CONCACAF. 18 January 2017. 18 January 2017.
  89. Web site: Bueno, bonito y barato. Fox Sports en Español. Good, pretty and cheap. es. 14 June 2009. Florentina ha mostrado su interés formal en el mexicano Rafael Márquez..." ["Florentina have formally demonstrated their interest in the Mexican Rafael Márquez...]|access-date= 27 July 2009|url-status= dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090720022038/http://msn.foxsports.com/fse/historia/futbol/usa/mls/9682070/Bueno,-bonito-y-barato?MSNLATINOHPHMA|archive-date= 20 July 2009|df= dmy-all}} Márquez, however, said he wanted to end his career at Barcelona.[19] Márquez eventually signed a new contract with Barça in November 2009 that would keep him at the club until 2012.[20] On 20 February 2010, he scored his first goal since his return against Racing Santander.

    On 31 July 2010, Márquez was released from his contract by Barcelona.[21] During his time with the club, he played in 242 matches and scored 13 goals, making him the most-capped non-European player in the club's history and the eighth-most capped foreigner.[22] In his 12-year European career, Márquez appeared in 46 UEFA Champions League matches, which was the most by a Mexican or CONCACAF player,[23] until compatriot Javier Hernández surpassed that record in 2017.[24] At the time, Márquez was also one of two players from CONCACAF to play in a Champions League final, the other being Trinidad and Tobago's Dwight Yorke for Manchester United in 1999.

    New York Red Bulls

    After seven years with and being released by Barcelona and participating at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it was reported that Italian club Juventus were interested in signing Márquez as a back-up for defender Leonardo Bonucci.[25]

    On 1 August 2010, it was announced that Márquez had signed with the New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer on a three-and-a-half-year contract.[26] He was the club's third Designated Player and was unveiled to the media at Red Bull Arena on 3 August wearing the number 4 jersey and reuniting with former Barcelona teammate Thierry Henry. On 8 August, Márquez made his MLS debut against the Chicago Fire in a scoreless draw. On 21 August, Márquez scored his first goal, an astonishing shot with his right foot, for the Red Bulls in a 4–1 win at Toronto FC. On 21 October, Márquez started for the Red Bulls in a 2–0 victory over New England Revolution which clinched the regular season Eastern Conference title.[27]

    New York released Márquez on 13 December 2012.[28] His stint in New York was heavily criticized by many fans and journalists for his constant injuries, suspensions and perceived lack of commitment to the fans and club.[29] [30] Márquez later revealed in an interview with ESPN Deportes that going to play in the United States was "a bad decision" and called it the worst decision he ever made in his career. He said that he had misjudged the arc of his career, believing it was declining faster than it was, and that he regretted declining offers from various European clubs, including one from Italian side Juventus.[31]

    León

    Hours after being released by the New York Red Bulls, it was announced that Márquez signed with Liga MX side León, returning to his home country after 13 years abroad.[32] It would not be until 5 October 2013 that Márquez scored his first goal for León in the Liga MX against Puebla, scoring a penalty kick in the 17th minute.

    On 15 December, León captured the Apertura 2013 title after defeating América 5–1 on aggregate.[33] Márquez, the club captain, played in both legs as he lifted his first league title in Mexico, more than 14 years after losing the final against Toluca when he played in Atlas.[34] The following tournament, Márquez helped León capture their second straight league title, becoming only the second team in history to win consecutive league titles in the short tournament era, the first being UNAM, who won the Clausura 2004 and Apertura 2004.[35] He also became the first Mexican footballer to win league titles in three countries.

    Hellas Verona

    On 7 August 2014, Hellas Verona of Serie A signed Márquez on undisclosed terms.[36] He stated that he had taken a pay cut to join the club as he was desperate to return to Europe.[37] Márquez made his league debut on 31 August, starting as Verona played out a goalless draw at home against Atalanta.[38]

    Return to Atlas

    On 21 December 2015, it was announced that Márquez had officially transferred to Atlas, returning to the club he debuted with.[39] He was handed the number 4 shirt.

    On 19 April 2018, Márquez announced that he would retire at the end of the season. He did, however, state his intention of representing Mexico at the World Cup.[40] Márquez played his final match at the Estadio Jalisco on 20 April, a 1–0 victory in the Clásico Tapatío against Guadalajara. The following week, Márquez played his final club match against Pachuca at the Estadio Hidalgo, which ended in a 0–0 draw.[41]

    International career

    Márquez made his debut with Mexico on 5 February 1997 in a friendly match against Ecuador. It was reported that his call-up was due to an error made by national team coach Bora Milutinović, who wanted to call up fellow Atlas player César Márquez.[42] Márquez became a regular call-up for Mexico, although he was not chosen for the 1998 FIFA World Cup squad. Márquez played various tournaments with the national team, winning the 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup and losing to Canada at the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Márquez started all four of Mexico's games during the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan, where he was given the captain's armband by then coach Javier Aguirre despite his young age of 23. He received a red card during Mexico's second round 2–0 loss to the United States for a deliberate mid-air head butt on Cobi Jones in the final minutes of the match.

    Márquez was selected by Ricardo La Volpe for the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Márquez played in all of three of Mexico's opening round matches, and scored the lone Mexican goal in a 2–1 loss to Argentina in the second round off a Pável Pardo free kick which was headed to the far post by Mario Méndez, allowing an unmarked Márquez to strike the ball into the back of the net. The winner was scored by Maxi Rodríguez in extra time after Hernán Crespo had equalised for Argentina.[43]

    New Mexico coach Hugo Sánchez called-up Márquez to participate in the 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the 2007 Copa América. Márquez joined up with the team Mexico for the Gold Cup's championship game against the United States after the conclusion of 2006–07 La Liga; he started the match, which Mexico lost 2–1.[44]

    Márquez captained Mexico at the 2010 World Cup, scoring Mexico's goal in the tournament's opening match against South Africa which ended in a 1–1 draw.[45] In Mexico's 2–0 win against France, Márquez assisted Javier Hernández in Mexico's first goal.[46]

    On 29 March 2011, Márquez became the eighth player in history to reach 100 caps for Mexico in a friendly match against Venezuela, where Mexico drew 1–1.[47]

    During Mexico's opening match at the 2014 World Cup – a 1–0 win over Cameroon – Márquez became the first player to captain a team in four World Cups. On 23 June, he scored the opening goal in the 3–1 win against Croatia, thus advancing to the knockout stage.[48] This goal made Márquez the first Mexican player to score in three consecutive World Cups, and the second Mexican player ever to score in three World Cups after Cuauhtémoc Blanco.[49]

    In May 2015, it was announced Márquez was included in the 23-man squad that would participate in the Copa América tournament in Chile.[50] He was selected to start as captain in Mexico's opening fixture of the tournament, a 0–0 draw with Bolivia in Viña del Mar.[51] The following year, Márquez captained Mexico at the Copa América Centenario, scoring in their opening game a 3–1 victory over Uruguay.[52]

    On 11 November 2016, in a 2018 World Cup qualifier in Columbus, Ohio, Márquez scored the winning goal for Mexico in the 89th minute to seal a 2–1 victory over the United States.

    Appearing in Mexico's second group-stage match against New Zealand at the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup, Márquez – at 38 years and four months – became the second-oldest player to appear in a match in Confederations Cup history. He was also making his first appearance at the tournament since 2005, setting new record for most years between consecutive matches with twelve.[53]

    On 4 June 2018, Marquez was named in Mexico's final 23-man squad for the World Cup.[54] This meant he would travel to his fifth World Cup finals, becoming only the fourth player in history to do so, alongside German Lothar Matthäus, Italian Gianluigi Buffon and fellow Mexican Antonio Carbajal.[55] He was substituted in for Andrés Guardado at the 74th minute in Mexico's 1–0 win over defending-champions Germany, and became the third man in history to play at a fifth World Cup.[56] On 2 July, in Mexico's round of 16 match against Brazil, Márquez became the first player ever to play as a captain in five World Cups and was substituted off at half-time, marking his last appearance as a professional.[57]

    Coaching career

    Following his retirement, he was introduced as Atlas' new sporting president, succeeding Fabricio Bassa.[58] [59] He held the position until May 2019.[60] In October 2021, Márquez joined the TUDN network as an analyst and commentator for national team games.[61]

    Alcalá

    On 8 April 2020, Márquez was appointed as a youth coach at Alcalá, taking care of the Cadete A (under 15) squad for the 2020–21 season.[62] [63]

    Barcelona Atlètic

    On 14 July 2022, Márquez was appointed head coach of Barcelona Atlètic, signing a two-year contract.[64] In his first season in charge, he led Barça Atlètic to a fourth place finish, qualifying for the promotional playoffs before being eliminated by Real Madrid Castilla 5–4 on aggregate. On 14 June 2023, it was announced that Márquez would continue with the team, signing an extension.[65] On 21 July 2024, Barcelona Atlètic announced Rafael's departure of the club.

    Mexico

    On 22 July 2024, the Mexican Football Federation announced Márquez to be the assistant coach of the Mexico national football team.[66]

    Style of play and reception

    Capable of playing as a centre-back, sweeper, or defensive midfielder, Márquez is widely considered to be one of Mexico's greatest-ever players. He has been described as elegant on the ball and in his tackling, possessing excellent technical ability and vision, tactical awareness, dependable in the air for both defending and attacking, and being skillful coming out of defense. Affectionately nicknamed the "Kaiser of Michoacan", he also stood out for his leadership ability.[67] [68] [69] [70] [71] In 2024, La Liga included Márquez in its Barcelona best eleven of the 21st century.[72]

    Outside football

    Personal life

    Márquez's father, Rafael Márquez Esqueda, was also a professional football player in Mexico. Rafael married Mexican actress Adriana Lavat in December 2001 and had two children, Santiago Rafael and Rafaela, before separating in 2007 and divorcing.[73] He is now married to Jaydy Michel, ex-wife of singer Alejandro Sanz.[74] His younger cousin, Luis Alberto Márquez, is also a professional footballer. Luis developed in Atlas' rival club, Guadalajara[75] and also played for Zacatepec.[76]

    He appeared on the North American cover of FIFA 12 alongside Wayne Rooney and Landon Donovan.[77]

    In October 2017, Márquez helped found Asociación Mexicana de Futbolistas (Mexican Footballers Association).[78]

    Kingpin Act designation

    On 9 August 2017, it was reported that Márquez was among 22 people sanctioned under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (also known as the "Kingpin Act") by the United States Treasury Department for alleged ties to a drug trafficking organization allegedly headed by Raúl Flores Hernández,[79] a suspected drug trafficker with links to the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. He was placed on a Specially Designated Nationals List by the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Nine businesses, including a soccer school and charitable foundation, were linked to Márquez by the OFAC. All 22 people were accused of providing support to, or being under the control of Flores Hernández.

    According to the OFAC, Márquez conducted money laundering by acting as a strawperson for Flores Hernández and his criminal organization. They alleged that Márquez used businessmen Mauricio Heredia Horner and Marco Antonio Fregoso González to act for or on his behalf. Márquez's assets "that are under U.S. jurisdiction or are in the control of U.S. persons" would be frozen.[80] [81] The Mexican Attorney General's Office said in a statement that Márquez came voluntarily to their offices to provide a statement that same day.[82] Since 22 September 2021 he has been removed from the list and is now clear of his name from the U.S. Treasury Department.[83]

    Career statistics

    Club

    Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
    ClubSeasonLeagueNational cupLeague cupContinentalOtherTotal
    DivisionAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoals
    Atlas1996–97Mexican Primera División242242
    1997–98Mexican Primera División201201
    1998–99Mexican Primera División333333
    Total776776
    Monaco1999–2000Ligue 1233202060333
    2000–01Ligue 115100304000221
    2001–02Ligue 12103020260
    2002–03Ligue 13010030331
    Total89550100100001145
    Barcelona2003–04La Liga2216030311
    2004–05La Liga3431060413
    2005–06La Liga250318010371
    2006–07La Liga211506051372
    2007–08La Liga2325080362
    2008–09La Liga23141101373
    2009–10La Liga151304010231
    Total16392724517124213
    New York Red Bulls2010Major League Soccer1012000121
    2011Major League Soccer1902000210
    2012Major League Soccer1502000170
    Total4416000501
    León2012–13Liga MX13010141
    2013–14Liga MX35170421
    2014–15Liga MX2020
    Total50180581
    Hellas Verona2014–15Serie A26030290
    2015–16Serie A9010100
    Total35040390
    Atlas2015–16Liga MX141141
    2016–17Liga MX230230
    2017–18Liga MX210210
    Total581581
    Career total516234221006317163827

    International

    Appearances and goals by national team and year

    National teamYearAppsGoals
    Mexico1997 10
    1998 00
    1999 121
    2000 102
    2001 120
    2002 71
    2003 41
    2004 81
    2005 91
    2006 61
    2007 91
    2008 61
    2009 20
    2010 111
    2011 121
    2012 20
    2013 41
    2014 92
    2015 50
    2016 72
    2017 60
    2018 50
    Total14717

    Sources:[84]

    International goals

    Scores and results list Mexico's goal tally first.[85]

    Goal Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
    1. 5 February 1999 Hong Kong Stadium, Wan Chai, Hong Kong 1–0 3–0 1999 Carlsberg Cup
    2. 13 February 2000 Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, United States 1–0 4–0 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup
    3. 3 September 2000 Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico 5–1 7–1 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifier
    4. 12 May 2002 Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico2–1 2–1 Friendly
    5. 24 July 2003 Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico1–0 2–0 2003 CONCACAF Gold Cup
    6. 19 June 2004 Alamodome, San Antonio, United States 3–0 10–0 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifier
    7. 7 September 2005 Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico 2–0 5–02006 FIFA World Cup qualifier
    8. 24 June 2006 Zentralstadion, Leipzig, Germany 1–0 1–2 (a.e.t.) 2006 FIFA World Cup
    9. 28 March 2007 McAfee Coliseum, Oakland, United States 2–2 4–2 Friendly
    10. 10 September 2008 Estadio Víctor Manuel Reyna, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Mexico 2–0 2–1 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier
    11. 11 June 2010 Soccer City, Johannesburg, South Africa 1–1 1–12010 FIFA World Cup
    12. 12 June 2011 Soldier Field, Chicago, United States 1–0 4–1 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup
    13. 13 November 2013 Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico 5–0 5–1 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier
    14. 2 April 2014 University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, United States 1–2 2–2 Friendly
    15. 23 June 2014 Arena Pernambuco, São Lourenço da Mata, Brazil 1–0 3–1 2014 FIFA World Cup
    16. 5 June 2016 University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, United States 2–1 3–1 Copa América Centenario
    17. 11 November 2016 Mapfre Stadium, Columbus, United States 2–1 2–1 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier

    Managerial

    Honours

    Monaco[87]

    1999–2000

    2002–03

    Barcelona

    León

    Apertura 2013, Clausura 2014

    Mexico

    1999

    2003, 2011

    2015

    Individual

    2008

    • Tecate Premios Deportes Best Center-back: 2009[88]
    • Tecate Premios Deportes Best XI: 2009
    • CONCACAF Best XI

    2016[89]

    2021

    See also

    External links

    ]

    .