Biography
Who is Pizzi?
Early life and career beginnings
Luís Miguel Afonso Fernandes was born in Bragança, Portugal, on October 6, 1989. Growing up, he earned his famous nickname from playing in a replica Barcelona jersey while idolizing the Spanish club's striker. He started his football path with his hometown club Bragança in the third tier during 2007. A year later, he signed with Primeira Liga club Braga, spending significant time out on loan to gain professional experience.
Stints in Spain and rise to prominence
Pizzi moved to Spanish team Atlético Madrid on loan in August 2011, eventually making his La Liga debut in September of that year. During his time with Atlético, he made 15 appearances and was part of their victorious UEFA Europa League campaign. He subsequently joined Deportivo de La Coruña for the 2012 to 2013 campaign, where he scored a crucial brace against Barcelona and delivered several strong performances in Spain's top flight.
Benfica success and international career
Pizzi spent eight strong seasons playing for Benfica, making 360 appearances and scoring 94 goals across all competitions. He helped the club win ten domestic honours, including four Primeira Liga titles, three of which were secured consecutively. His strong play earned him individual recognition, such as being voted the LPFP Primeira Liga Player of the Year for the 2016 to 2017 season, alongside multiple Player of the Month awards and top scorer honors.
Pizzi height and personal life
Standing at 172 centimeters tall, Pizzi built a reputation as a lively and technically gifted central midfielder throughout his professional career. His roots in Bragança remained an important part of his identity as he climbed through the ranks of Portuguese football. Beyond his club achievements in Portugal and Spain, he experienced various football cultures through international moves before announcing his retirement from professional football in May 2026 due to chronic hip pain.
Birthday and age
Pizzi was born on October 6, 1989, which makes Pizzi 37 years old today. That birthday falls under the Libra sign. Pizzi shares the date with 63 other famous people.
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