Happy Birthday, Ezequiel Lavezzi!
Former Ezequiel Lavezzi turns 41 today, and for supporters of Paris Saint-Germain, “Pocho” remains one of the most charismatic figures of the club’s modern era. Known for his relentless energy, flair, and infectious personality, the Argentine spent five memorable seasons in the French capital during a transformative period for PSG.
Before arriving in Paris, Lavezzi had already established himself as a fan favourite at SSC Napoli. Between 2007 and 2012, he made 188 appearances for the Italian side, scoring 48 goals and registering 60 assists. His final season in Naples ended on a high as Napoli defeated Juventus FC 2-0 to win the 2012 Coppa Italia.
His performances in Serie A also earned him a place in Argentina’s gold medal-winning squad at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.
After making his name in Italy, Lavezzi joined PSG in the summer of 2012 as part of the club’s ambitious new era. Over the next five years, the Argentine became an important figure in a side that dominated French football domestically.
A Trophy-laden PSG career
During his time in Paris, Lavezzi won four Ligue 1 titles, two Coupe de France trophies, three Coupe de la Ligue titles, and one Trophée des Champions. He also formed part of a star-studded attacking cast alongside players such as Zlatan Ibrahimović, Edinson Cavani and Javier Pastore.
But beyond the silverware, it was Lavezzi’s personality and work ethic that endeared him to supporters. Whether pressing defenders tirelessly or entertaining teammates off the pitch, “Pocho” quickly became one of the dressing room’s most popular figures.
Across 161 appearances for PSG, Lavezzi scored 35 goals and delivered 24 assists, often stepping up in major domestic and European matches.
In a past interview with PSG’s official website, the Argentine reflected warmly on his years in Paris:
“Only good memories! There are so many nice things in Paris… I grew up there as a player and as a person.”
Even after leaving the club in 2016, Lavezzi has continued to maintain close ties with many of his former teammates and regularly follows PSG’s results.
Internationally, his years in Paris coincided with an important spell for Argentina national football team. Lavezzi helped La Albiceleste reach the final of the 2014 FIFA World Cup and consecutive Copa América finals in 2015 and 2016. He finished his international career with 51 caps and nine goals.
Following his departure from PSG, Lavezzi moved to Hebei China Fortune in 2016, where he spent the final years of his playing career before retiring in 2019.
For many PSG supporters, Lavezzi represents one of the defining personalities of the club’s early QSI era — a player who combined quality, passion, and unforgettable character.
Happy 41st birthday, Pocho.
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