Gonzalo Higuaín

The prolific striker who scored 10 goals in 17 league matches for River Plate before joining Real Madrid.

Gonzalo Higuaín, known affectionately as El Pipita or Pipa, began his professional journey with Argentine club River Plate. He made his senior debut on 29 May 2005 in a 2–1 defeat against Gimnasia y Esgrima (LP). His first league goal arrived on 12 February 2006 during a 3–1 victory over Banfield, helping him end the 2005–06 season with 5 goals in just 12 appearances. A defining moment came on 8 October 2006 when he scored twice in the Superclásico derby against Boca Juniors. Following this performance, manager Daniel Passarella praised Higuaín's potential, noting he had an "enormous future." By the end of that season, he had netted 10 goals across 17 league matches.

Quick Facts

Full name: Gonzalo Gerardo Higuaín
Born: 10 December 1987
Birthplace: Brest, France
Height: 1.86 m / 6 ft 1 in
Position: Striker
Current club: Inter Miami (player development coach)
Total caps: 530
Total goals: 279

Lore & Background

Higuaín's rise through River Plate was marked by rapid development from the youth teams to the senior squad. His early performances quickly drew attention, particularly after his brace against Boca Juniors in October 2006. This display of predatory finishing and strong offensive movement caught the eye of manager Daniel Passarella, who publicly praised the young forward's potential. The club saw him as a cornerstone for their future, with his ability to find the back of the net becoming a consistent feature of their attack. His progression from making his debut in May 2005 to scoring crucial goals by late 2006 demonstrated his quick adaptation to the demands of senior football.

Reader's Guide

For fans tracking Higuaín's early career, key dates include his debut on 29 May 2005 and his first goal on 12 February 2006. His breakthrough season saw him score 5 goals in 12 appearances during the 2005–06 campaign. The 2006–07 season proved pivotal; after scoring a brace against Boca Juniors on 8 October, he finished with 10 goals in 17 league games. He left River Plate after establishing himself as a prolific scorer with an eye for goal.

Did You Know?

Higuaín made his senior debut for River Plate on 29 May 2005 at the age of 17.
His performance at River Plate led to a transfer to Real Madrid for €12 million in December 2006.