Jorge Valdivia life and biography

Jorge Valdivia - known as "the Magician"(El Mago) - is talent in its purest form. A gifted playmaker, he began his career at Colo Colo but was loaned out following a succession of disciplinary problems. He made his debut in the top division for Universidad de Concepcion, becoming a fan favourite. A key figure in the team, he achieved something that until his arrival had been considered unthinkable; in 2004, he helped Universidad qualify for both the Copa Libertadores and the South American Cup.

Loaned next Rayo Vallecano in Spain's second-division, he was given precious few chances, a problem he also experienced at Switzerland's Servette. In 2005, he returned to Colo Colo, finally ready to exploit his ability, and the team won the 2006 Apertura. He was then sold to Palmeiras of Brazil, where he excelled, inspiring the team to win the 2008 Sao Paulo State championship.

Valdivia's form for the national team has been up and down. Along with some of his teammates, he was banned from representing his country for 20 games, as a result of indiscipline at the Chilean training camp for the 2007 Copa America. He now plays for Al-Ain FC, in the United Arab Emirates.

Strengths: A creative midfielder with excellent awareness.
Weaknesses: His bad temper has got him into trouble on numerous occasions.

Career high: Was playmaker in the Colo Colo team that won the 2006 Apertura, where he earned him the nickname "the Magician". He also shone in Brazil, where he won a state championship.
Career low: Played very little and well even less often during his time at Rayo Vallecano.

Style: A joy to watch and a great character both on and off the pitch.

Trivia: Studied journalism, a vocation he intends to pursue when finished playing football.

Quotes: "We came down to have breakfast at the hotel. We were joking among ourselves, throwing pieces of bread, ham and cheese between us. One of my teammates made unsavory remarks about a woman, but that was it," Valdivia on the incidents that sparked his suspension from the Chilean national team.

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