Pablo Zabaleta

Pablo Zabaleta is a full back of Manchester City. He was born on 16 January in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Pablo began his football career in 1995, entering the Obras Sanitarias academy, where he spent two years till 1997. In 1997 he drew attention of San Lorenzo that sent its scout to watch a young footballer. The player did for the club and it offered Pablo to train in the academy. From 1997 till 2002 Zabaleta was a trainee of the San Lorenzo youth system, where he prepared to be the first team player.

In 2002 the club decided to make Pablo a regular. Zabaleta signed his first contract with San Lorenzo tying him to the club till 2005. During three years Pablo was one of the main players in the team, making starts and coming as a substitute. As his performance was getting steadier and more professional, he became the pivot of the defense. Pablo Zabaleta made 66 appearances and scored eight goals for the club during three years.

In 2005 Pablo was offered to sign for the Spanish side Espanyol that plays in La Liga. Zabaleta signed a three-year contract that cost the new club €3 million. The Argentinian back became a regular due to his playing experience and talent. At the beginning of 2007 Pablo got a trauma that kept him out of action for three months. During three years with Espanyol, Zabaleta featured in 80 matches and netted three goals.

In 2008 the English side Manchester City agreed on the transfer of Pablo Zabaleta and signed a five-year contract with the player for an undisclosed fee. At the moment, Zabaleta is the first team player and Roberto Mancini, the club manager, trusts the Argentinian footballer, who plays a very important role in the defense.

From 2008 Pablo was capped nine times for the Argentina national U23 football team. From 2005 Pablo took part in 24 games of the senior national team.