Enzo Francescoli, known as “El Príncipe” (The Prince), is a celebrated Uruguayan former footballer renowned for his elegance and technical mastery on the field. His career, spanning over two decades, solidified his place as one of South America’s most beloved football legends.
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Enzo Francescoli’s Biography
Attribute
Information
Full Name
Enzo Francescoli Uriarte
Nickname
El Príncipe (The Prince)
Date of Birth
November 12, 1961
Nationality
Uruguayan
Position
Attacking Midfielder
Age
62 (as of 2024)
Net Worth (2024)
Estimated $10 million
Wife
Mariela Yern
Children
Two sons, Bruno and Marco
Social Media
Not active on social media
Early Career
Enzo Francescoli began his football journey in Montevideo, Uruguay, playing for the youth team of Montevideo Wanderers. His talent was evident early on, and he made his professional debut at 18 in 1980. His creativity, ball control, and strategic insight quickly led to recognition, marking the start of a brilliant career.
Professional Career
Team
Years
Key Achievements
Wanderers
1980-1983
Developed foundational skills in Uruguay
River Plate
1983-1986
Won five Argentine Championships, became club legend
Racing Paris
1986-1989
Enhanced reputation in European leagues
Olympique Marseille
1989-1990
Won French Division 1 title (1989-90)
Cagliari
1990-1993
Cemented legacy in Italian football
River Plate
1994-1997
Returned to River, solidifying legendary status
International Career Francescoli represented Uruguay in three FIFA World Cups (1986, 1990, and 1994) and contributed to Uruguay’s Copa América wins in 1983, 1987, and 1995.
Personal Life and Family
Detail
Information
Wife
Mariela Yern
Marriage Year
1984
Children
Two sons, Bruno and Marco
Profession of Wife
Psychologist
Family Life
Known for a close-knit family, often credited Mariela’s support for his mental resilience during his career
Enzo Francescoli’s Net Worth
Year
Estimated Net Worth
2024
$10 million
Francescoli accumulated his wealth primarily through his football career, endorsements, and business ventures in sports management.
Career Earnings
Period
Team
Estimated Earnings
1980-1983
Wanderers
$100,000 – $200,000
1983-1986
River Plate
$500,000 – $1 million
1986-1989
Racing Paris
$1 million – $2 million
1989-1990
Olympique Marseille
$500,000 – $1 million
1990-1993
Cagliari
$2 million – $3 million
1994-1997
River Plate
$1 million – $2 million
Endorsements
Brand
Details
Adidas
Featured prominently early in his career
Puma
Later switched to Puma boots
Gatorade
Involved in South American campaigns
Uruguayan Brands
Endorsed various products locally
Football Video Games
Appeared as a legend post-retirement
Career Achievements and Records
Record/Achievement
Details
Uruguay National Team
73 caps, 17 goals
Copa América Wins
1983, 1987, 1995
River Plate Titles
5 Argentine Championships
French Division 1 Title
1989-90 with Olympique Marseille
FIFA 100
Named in Pelé’s list of 125 greatest living footballers
River Plate All-time Top Scorer
137 goals in 251 appearances
South American Footballer of the Year
1984, 1995
FAQs
Question
Answer
What was Francescoli’s playing style?
Known for technical elegance, creativity, and vision as an attacking midfielder
How many Copa América titles did he win?
Three titles (1983, 1987, 1995)
What is Francescoli doing now?
Works as a sports commentator and is active in sports management
Did Francescoli play in the English Premier League?
No, he spent his European career in France and Italy
Who cited Francescoli as an inspiration?
Zinedine Zidane, who named his son after him
How many World Cups did he play in?
Three (1986, 1990, 1994)
What is his legacy in Uruguayan football?
Revered as one of Uruguay’s greatest players, influential in South American football
Enzo Francescoli’s legacy remains a profound influence on future generations, revered for his style, contributions to Uruguayan and South American football, and the impact he left on international football culture.
