Giovani Dos Santos Ramírez

Giovani is only the second Mexican player to pull on a Barça shirt following on from Rafael Márquez. He joins the senior squad at the age of 18.

Giovani comes from a footballing family – his father ‘Zizinho’, was a professional player with Monterrey and his brother, Jonathan, has also been with Barça -, and has been learning his trade at the Club since 2002.

His progress through the youth ranks of the Club saw him play with Infantil A (2002-03), Cadet B (2003-04), Cadet A (2004-05) and Juvenil A (2005-06). Last season he played with Barça B.

Giovani Dos Santos made the definitive step up to the senior squad for the 2007-08 season, though he trained with first team in the previous summer, making his debut – goal included - against Aarhus in Denmark on 28th July 2006.

On the international stage, he won the World under-17 championship with Mexico in Peru in 2005, where he was chosen as the second best player of the tournament. He also took part in the World under -20 championship in 2007, where Mexico were eliminated by Argentina in the quarterfinals. This time he was chosen as the third best player.

PROFILE

Giovani has powerful legs and stands out for his speed and dribbling skills. This left-footed player is dangerous down either wing but can also play behind the main striker or as a centre forward. He usually takes his chances in front of goal.

HONOURS

Mexico
2005 Under-17 World Champion