Biography
Who is Nacho Monreal?
Early life and career beginnings
Ignacio Monreal Eraso was born in Pamplona, Spain. He came through the youth system at Osasuna before making his official debut for his hometown club in October 2006 during a match against Valencia. He established himself as a regular player for the team over the course of five La Liga seasons, appearing in 144 official games and helping them reach the UEFA Cup semi-finals.
In June 2011, he moved to Málaga on a five-year contract. During his first season with the club, he missed only seven matches as the team finished in fourth place and secured qualification for the Champions League for the first time in their history. He scored his only goal for the Andalusians in January 2013 during an away win against Mallorca.
Arsenal career and trophies
In January 2013, Nacho Monreal joined English Premier League side Arsenal on a long-term contract. He made his debut for the club just two days later in a win against Stoke City and was given the number 17 shirt. During his time in North London, he scored several important goals, including an opening strike against Manchester United in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
He won three FA Cup trophies during his spell with Arsenal, playing the full ninety minutes in the final against Aston Villa. In October 2017, his strong defensive performances earned him the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Month award. He made a total of 251 appearances in all competitions for the English club before leaving.
Return to Spain and retirement
Nacho Monreal returned to Spain in August 2019 to join Real Sociedad on a two-year contract. He scored on his competitive debut for the team against Atlético Madrid at the Anoeta Stadium. He missed the entire 2021-22 season due to a knee injury and announced his departure from the club in May 2022.
In August 2022, Monreal officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36. Across his career, he played for clubs including Osasuna B, Osasuna, Málaga, and Arsenal, alongside his time with Real Sociedad.
International career
Nacho Monreal represented Spain at various youth levels before earning his first call-up to the senior national team in August 2009 for an exhibition game against Macedonia. He went on to be part of the squad that reached the final of the FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil, starting in matches against teams like Tahiti.
He scored his only senior international goal in November 2016 during a World Cup qualifier against Macedonia. He was subsequently selected by manager Julen Lopetegui for the Spain squad that competed at the World Cup finals in Russia.
Birthday and age
Nacho Monreal was born on February 26, 1986, which makes Nacho 40 years old today. That birthday falls under the Pisces sign. Nacho shares the date with 41 other famous people.
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