Joan Capdevila
Spanish left-back who won Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup with Spain, and played for Villarreal from 2007 to 2011.
Joan Capdevila Méndez (born 3 February 1978) is a Spanish former professional footballer who played as a left-back. Over 15 seasons in La Liga, he amassed totals of 410 matches and 36 goals, mainly for Deportivo and Villarreal. In a 21-year senior career, he also played in Portugal, India, Belgium and Andorra. Capdevila won 60 caps for Spain, being a member of the squads that won Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup.
Quick Facts
- Role
- Left-Back
- Affiliation
- Villarreal CF (Senior)
- Status
- Retired Legend
- Debut era
- 2005-2006 Season
- Key team achievement
- UEFA Champions League Semifinalist 2006 (with Villarreal CF)
- National representation
- Spain National Team
Lore & Background
Born in Tàrrega, Lleida, Catalonia, and a product of Espanyol's youth system, Capdevila started playing football as a forward. He made his debut for Espanyol's first team during the 1998–99 season. He joined Atlético Madrid the following year. After Atlético's relegation, he signed with Deportivo de La Coruña in summer 2000, becoming a regular at left-back.
On 16 September 2006, he scored twice as Deportivo beat Villarreal 2–0. For the 2007–08 campaign, Capdevila moved to Villarreal on a three-year deal, playing in all but two league games as the side finished runners-up. In his second year he bettered his goal total (five). In 2009–10 he missed only one league match and added another five goals.
On 6 December 2009 he scored twice in a 3–2 home win against Getafe. He faced stiff competition from José Catalá midway through 2010–11 but finished with more than 40 official appearances, including nine in Villarreal's Europa League semi-final run, where he scored in a 3–2 home victory over eventual winners Porto. On 21 July 2011, aged 33, he joined Benfica on a two-year contract. He made his Champions League debut for Benfica on 4 April 2012 against Chelsea.
He won the Taça da Liga with Benfica in 2011–12. On 27 July 2012 he returned to Espanyol, and was released on 22 May 2014. On 16 July 2014 he signed for NorthEast United as their marquee player for the inaugural Indian Super League season. On 21 January 2015 he joined Belgian club Lierse. On 1 June 2016 he signed for Santa Coloma in Andorra. He announced his retirement on 5 July 2017.
Reader's Guide
Capdevila was an attacking-minded left-sided full-back or wing-back, known for his speed and passing ability, which enabled him to get forward, make overlapping runs, provide width and link up with the attack. Regarded as one of the best left-backs in his prime, he was also known for his leadership and consistency as well as his defensive ability, though he was stronger in the offensive aspect of his game.
Did You Know?
- Capdevila started his career as a forward before converting to left-back.
- He was the only member of Spain's starting line-up for the 2010 World Cup final who was not from Real Madrid or Barcelona.
- He provided three assists in the group stage of the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, the most of any player.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Joan Capdevila?
Joan Capdevila is a retired Spanish defender who emerged from the youth academy to become one of the most iconic figures in club history. He defined an era of success for the Submarino Amarillo through his consistent performances on the pitch.
What position did he play for Villarreal?
He operated as a left-back, serving as a cornerstone of the defense during the team's transformation into a La Liga contender. His stability in this role allowed him to earn selection for the Spain national team alongside his club duties.
What major European milestone did he help achieve?
Capdevila was part of the squad that reached the 2004 UEFA Cup final, finishing as runners-up in a landmark campaign for the club. This achievement highlighted his contribution during the period when Villarreal became a regular presence in European competitions.
Why is he considered a loyal legend of the club?
His importance stems from maintaining his spot for more than ten years before eventually leaving the team. This longevity symbolizes loyalty and helped establish stability during a crucial growth phase for the organization.
How does his story with Villarreal conclude?
His tenure ended after over a decade of service, cementing his status as a retired legend who anchored the golden era. He remains synonymous with the identity of the club that rose from a modest local side to international prominence.
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