Biography
Who is Norberto Alonso?
Early life and career beginnings
Norberto Osvaldo Alonso was born on January 4, 1953, in Florida, Argentina. Although he was born in the Vicente López area of the Buenos Aires province, he spent his formative years growing up in the neighborhood of Los Polvorines. This area was considered a poor suburb during his childhood.
He developed his football skills within the youth system of Club Atlético River Plate. He began rising through the ranks during a difficult period for the club, which was suffering through an eighteen-year championship drought. By the time manager Angel Labruna took control of the squad in 1975, Alonso had established himself as the team anchor and wore the famous number 10 jersey.
Success with River Plate
The team achieved significant success under Alonso's leadership, winning both the Metropolitano and Nacional tournaments in 1975. This victory marked the beginning of a highly successful era for the club, which secured seven local titles between 1975 and 1981. During this peak period, River Plate became known as one of the most expensive and prestigious teams globally, utilizing a deep roster that allowed for separate lineups in league play and the Copa Libertadores.
Norberto Alonso played a crucial role in the squad that won the club's first Copa Libertadores and the Intercontinental Cup during the 1985 to 1986 season. Statistically, he ranks among the most productive players in the club's history. He finished his career with 166 goals scored across 464 matches. Within the record books of River Plate specifically, he sits in fifth place for all-time goalscoring with 149 goals and seventh place for total appearances with 374 matches.
International play and time abroad
His career included a brief stint away from Argentina when he transferred to the French club Olympique de Marseille in 1976. This period was ultimately unsuccessful, leading to his return to River Plate the following year in 1977. He also played for Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield starting in 1982 after a period of friction with coach Alfredo Di Stéfano at River Plate, before returning to River again in 1984.
On the international stage, Alonso represented the Argentina national football team. He was part of the squad that won the FIFA World Cup on home soil in 1978, although coach César Luis Menotti gave him limited playing time during the tournament. Due to the alphabetical numbering system used for the team, he wore the number 1 jersey, which is typically reserved for goalkeepers.
Retirement and coaching
Norberto Alonso played his final official match on December 4, 1986, during the Intercontinental Cup final held in Tokyo against Steaua București. His contribution was key, as he delivered a quick free kick that allowed teammate Antonio Alzamendi to score the match's only goal, securing a 1–0 victory for River Plate. In July 1987, the club honored him with a testimonial match at the Monumental stadium attended by approximately 80,000 fans.
Following his retirement from professional football, he transitioned into private business and opened an insurance agency. He also participated in various commercial ventures. In 1989, he returned to the pitch in a coaching capacity, leading River Plate alongside Reinaldo Merlo. However, the pair was dismissed mid-season when the club president decided to hire Daniel Passarella instead.
Birthday and age
Norberto Alonso was born on January 4, 1953, which makes Norberto 73 years old today. That birthday falls under the Capricorn sign. Norberto shares the date with 60 other famous people.
Explore more
