Biography
Who is Walter Gargano?
Early life and youth career
Walter Alejandro Gargano Guevara began his football path at the age of three. His early development took place at a youth club called Centella, located in the city of Paysandu. During his time there, he established himself as a midfield player. His talent drew attention during matches against the Danubio football club. Soon after, he moved to join Danubio to continue his progression as a young athlete.
He launched his professional playing career with Danubio in 2003. He made his debut in the league at age 19. During his stint with the club, he helped secure two national titles, first in 2004 and later during the 2006 to 2007 season. By the time he left for Europe, he had accumulated 102 appearances and three goals for the team.
Time in Italian football
In June 2007, Walter Gargano transferred from Danubio to the Italian club Napoli. He signed a five-year contract for a reported fee of two million pounds. He made his Serie A debut in August 2007 against Cagliari. His first goal for the club came in October 2007 during a high-scoring draw against Roma. He followed this with a goal in a victory over Juventus just one week later.
His tenure in Italy included several challenges. During the 2008 to 2009 season, he suffered a fractured foot while training in March, keeping him sidelined for two months. He renewed his contract with Napoli in 2010. By 2011, he helped the team compete in the Champions League, playing in matches against Manchester City and Chelsea. Although the club won the Coppa Italia in 2012, he missed the final match due to a suspension.
International career with Uruguay
Walter Gargano was a frequent contributor to the Uruguay men's national football team. He represented his country at the 2007 Copa America, where the squad finished in fourth place. He was also selected for the team that participated in the 2010 World Cup. During that tournament, he appeared as a substitute multiple times as Uruguay finished in fourth place overall.
In 2011, he was part of the squad that won the Copa America. During the quarter-finals against Argentina, he successfully converted his attempt in the penalty shoot-out. He also participated in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2014 FIFA World Cup. In the 2013 tournament, he missed a decisive penalty in the bronze medal match against Italy.
Personal life
Walter is married to Michaela, who is the sister of his former Napoli teammate Marek Hamsik. The couple has three children together. Their first son, Matias, was born on 7 May 2010. Their second son, Thiago, arrived on 7 April 2012. Their youngest son, Leo, was born on 27 November 2017.
Birthday and age
Walter Gargano was born on July 23, 1984, which makes Walter 42 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. Walter shares the date with 59 other famous people.
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