Erik Lamela: Athlete's Biography

Club Career

River Plate

Erik Lamela made his professional debut for River Plate on June 14, 2009, during the Clausura tournament against Tigre. Over the next seasons, he became a regular starter for the team. Despite his individual success, including scoring critical goals during the Apertura season, River Plate faced relegation in 2011 due to the cumulative results over three seasons.

Roma

In August 2011, Lamela transferred to Roma for an initial fee of €12 million, marking his first foray into European football. In his debut Serie A season, he scored his first goal on October 23, 2011, against Palermo and ended up with six goals in 31 appearances. He had a prolific start to the 2012–13 season with a remarkable scoring streak and concluded the season with 15 goals, making him one of Roma's top performers.

Tottenham Hotspur

Lamela joined Tottenham Hotspur in August 2013 for a then club-record fee of £25.8 million. Despite an injury-hampered start, he established himself as an integral part of the squad over subsequent seasons. Lamela's tenure at Tottenham was highlighted by reaching the 2018-19 UEFA Champions League final and several memorable performances in domestic competitions, including notable goals and assists.

Sevilla

In July 2021, Lamela signed for Sevilla as part of a swap deal for Bryan Gil. He made an immediate impact, scoring twice on his La Liga debut. Notably, he scored a decisive goal in the 2022–23 Europa League semi-final against Juventus and contributed in the final shootout victory against his former club Roma, securing his first major European title.

AEK Athens

On July 21, 2024, Lamela signed a three-year contract with AEK Athens, making headlines with a club record fee of €2.5 million per year. This move marked a new chapter in his career in the Greek Super League.

National Team Career

Youth National Teams

Lamela was an important figure for Argentina's youth national teams, notably participating in the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup where he scored three goals in four matches.

Senior National Team

Lamela made his senior debut for Argentina on May 25, 2011, in a friendly against Paraguay. He played in the 2015 and 2016 Copa América tournaments, where Argentina finished as runners-up. Among his international highlights are crucial goals against Germany in 2014 and Venezuela in the 2016 Copa América quarterfinals. Lamela's contributions have made him a valued player in the national setup during his international career.

Erik Manuel Lamela Cordero, born on March 4, 1992, is an accomplished Argentine professional footballer renowned for his exceptional talents as an attacking midfielder or right winger. Currently playing for AEK Athens in the Super League Greece, Lamela has had a prolific career across major football leagues in Europe, including stints at River Plate, Roma, Tottenham Hotspur, and Sevilla. His career is marked by significant achievements, such as reaching the UEFA Champions League final with Tottenham and winning the UEFA Europa League title with Sevilla.

Achievements

Team Achievements

• UEFA Europa League: 2022–23 (with Sevilla)
• Coppa Italia runner-up: 2012–13 (with Roma)
• Football League/EFL Cup runner-up: 2014–15, 2020–21 (with Tottenham Hotspur)
• UEFA Champions League runner-up: 2018–19 (with Tottenham Hotspur)

Individual Achievements

• Premier League Goal of the Season: 2020–21
• FIFA Puskás Award: 2021

Awards and Recognition

Erik Lamela has received numerous accolades for his on-field performances, including prestigious awards like the FIFA Puskás Award, highlighting his skill and contribution to football over the years.

Career Overview

Erik Lamela's career is characterized by his adaptability and ability to shine in varied football environments. His journey from Argentina to the European leagues illustrates his growth and sustained performance, influencing teams both in domestic and international competitions.

Off the Field

While Lamela's off-field endeavors and commercial activities are not expansively documented, his public image is predominantly tied to his dedication and love for the sport.

Personal Life

Lamela shares a personal life with his long-term partner, Sofia Herrero, and together they have two sons. His personal background provides stability and complement to his professional endeavors, forming a crucial part of his life beyond football.