Julio Cruz
Argentine striker known for his aerial ability and nickname 'El Jardinero'
Julio Ricardo Cruz (born 10 October 1974) is an Argentine former footballer. He played for clubs in Argentina, the Netherlands and Italy before retiring in 2010. The longest spell of his career was spent with Inter Milan, with whom he won four consecutive Serie A titles, among other honours. A large and physical player, who was known for his ability in the air, he usually played as a striker but he has even played as a winger, as an attacking midfielder, and as a centre-forward. In 2015, he opened his own charity foundation, the Julio Cruz Foundation. Cruz earned 22 caps for the Argentina national team from his debut in 1997, scoring three goals. He represented Argentina at the 1997 Copa América and the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
Lore & Background
Cruz's nickname, 'El Jardinero' (Spanish for 'The Gardener'), was given to him at an early age as he was serving as a groundskeeper while a youngster at local team Banfield in 1993 when he was summoned by Oscar López to fill in for a missing player one day for a first team practice match. Upon noticing his talent he was promoted, and the nickname was born. Cruz was also nicknamed 'Poncharello' by Inter Channel commentator Roberto Scarpini due to his similar appearance with the character from the 1980s TV show CHiPs.
Reader's Guide
Cruz started his career with Banfield in 1993. In 1996, he moved to River Plate. In 1997, he moved to Europe to join Dutch club Feyenoord. In 2000, he joined Bologna in Italy. In 2003, Cruz left Bologna to sign for Inter Milan. On 31 July 2009, Cruz left Inter and signed with Lazio on a two-year contract. At the end of 2009–10 season, Cruz's contract with Lazio was mutually terminated, as he was suffering from injury. He announced his retirement from football on 7 September 2010.
Did You Know?
- Cruz scored his first Inter goal in a 3–0 victory over Arsenal at Highbury on 17 September 2003 in the UEFA Champions League.
- He ended the 2005–06 season as Inter's top scorer with 21 goals, including 15 Serie A goals.
- Cruz scored the opening penalty in the penalty shoot-outs against Germany at the 2006 World Cup, but Argentina lost 4–2 on penalties.
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