Enner Valencia: Athlete's Biography

Club Career

Emelec

Enner Valencia's professional career began at Emelec, where he joined the first team in 2010 after two years of limited playtime. Under coach Jorge Sampaoli, Valencia found his form, scoring nine goals in 2011 and 13 goals in 2012, ultimately proving instrumental in Emelec's campaigns. His prowess was crowned in 2013 when he played a crucial role in securing Emelec's league title and achieved personal success by netting his first hat-trick in the Copa Sudamericana.

Pachuca

In January 2014, Valencia transferred to Mexican club Pachuca. His scoring abilities flourished as he became the Liga MX top scorer in the 2014 Clausura tournament with 12 goals, aiding Pachuca in several victories and playoff advancements. His remarkable performance led to significant interest from top European clubs.

West Ham United

Valencia's big move came in July 2014 when he signed with English Premier League team West Ham United for a fee of approximately £12 million. His tenure started with a spectacular first league goal against Hull City, marked by a remarkable 25-yard strike. Although his performance at West Ham was mixed with injuries, he remained a fan favorite due to his sporadic brilliance and crucial goals.

Loan to Everton

For the 2016-17 season, Valencia joined Everton on loan, scoring his first goal for the club in January 2017 against Southampton.

Tigres UANL

Valencia moved to Tigres UANL in July 2017, where he continued his success in front of the goal, helping the team to Liga MX titles in the Apertura 2017 and Clausura 2019 seasons. His skills shone as he became the top scorer in the 2019 CONCACAF Champions League.

Fenerbahçe

Valencia joined Turkish club Fenerbahçe in August 2020, amassing an impressive goal tally, including becoming the top scorer of the 2022-23 Süper Lig season with 29 goals, showcasing his enduring talent and goal-scoring instincts.

SC Internacional

In June 2023, Valencia signed with Internacional in Brazil on a three-year contract. His journey with the club began with moments of brilliance in international competitions, cementing his status as a seasoned forward with a knack for crucial goals.

National Team Career

Youth National Teams

Valencia participated in the 2011 Pan American Games, representing the Ecuador under-22 team and setting the foundation for his senior national team career.

Senior National Team

Valencia made his debut for the Ecuador national team in February 2012 and has since become its all-time top scorer. He represented Ecuador in the FIFA World Cup editions of 2014 and 2022, where he scored the nation's record goals in World Cup finals. Known for his consistency and impact, Valencia has participated in multiple Copa América tournaments, solidifying his status as a national hero and remarkable striker, whose crucial goals continue to inspire fans worldwide.

Enner Remberto Valencia Lastra, born on 4 November 1989, is a distinguished Ecuadorian professional footballer known for his remarkable achievements on the football field. He currently plays as a forward for Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Internacional and serves as the captain of the Ecuador national team. Renowned for his goal-scoring prowess and leadership, Valencia has become Ecuador's all-time top scorer, an icon for aspiring footballers across his nation.

Achievements

Team Achievements

• Ecuadorian Serie A: 2013 (Emelec)
• Liga MX: Apertura 2017, Clausura 2019 (Tigres UANL)
• Turkish Cup: 2022–23 (Fenerbahçe)

Individual Achievements

• Ecuadorian Serie A Best Player: 2013
• Copa Sudamericana Top scorer: 2013
• Liga MX Top scorer: Clausura 2014
• CONCACAF Champions League Golden Boot: 2019
• Süper Lig Top scorer: 2022–23

Awards and Recognition

Valencia's career has been decorated with individual accolades recognizing his exceptional talents. He was included in the Liga MX Best XI in Apertura 2017 and recognized for his campaign contributions in the CONCACAF Champions League. Overall, his performances have earned admiration across the footballing community, marking him as one of Ecuador's finest players.

Career Overview

Enner Valencia's football legacy stands as a testament to his determination, skill, and perseverance. By overcoming challenging beginnings, he has established a distinguished career, achieving success both at the club and international levels. His role as Ecuador's top scorer highlights his contribution to his national team, inspiring future generations of Ecuadorian footballers.

Off the Field

Valencia's influence extends beyond the pitch through community engagement and personal challenges. Notably, he has faced difficulties, including legal issues related to child support and personal family matters. Despite these challenges, he remains a respected figure in football circles, known for his resilience and dedication.

Personal Life

Valencia's personal life is deeply rooted in his origins in the Esmeraldas Province. He has faced adversity, indicative of his time at Emelec where he struggled financially. His family's significance in his life is profound, as highlighted by his sister's kidnapping ordeal in 2020. Valencia's story of rising from humble beginnings continues to resonate, demonstrating the power of determination and the pursuit of one’s passion.