Fabián Vargas


Fabián Andrés Vargas Rivera is a Colombian former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He spent most of his professional career playing for América de Cali and Boca Juniors, making more than 100 appearances for both clubs. He also played for Internacional, Almería, AEK Athens, Independiente, Barcelona SC, Millonarios, and La Equidad. At international level, he represented the Colombia national team 41 times and also captained the side.

Career

Vargas was born in Bogotá, Colombia.
While on loan at Brazilian side SC Internacional from Boca Juniors, Vargas played in the side which beat FC Barcelona 1–0 at the 2006 FIFA Club World Cup Final in Japan.
On 18 June 2009, Vargas has signed a three-year deal with Spanish club UD Almería for a fee worth €4million. On 5 September 2009, he broke his ankle in half during a 2010 World Cup qualification match with Colombia against Ecuador. It was announced he would be out of action indefinitely. The following day, it was revealed that Vargas had torn a ligament and would not be able to play for one year.

AEK Athens

On 26 August 2011, Vargas signed with Superleague Greece club AEK Athens on a 1+1 year deal keeping him at the club until 2013.
Vargas scored his first goal for AEK on his second league appearance against Xanthi, making the scoreline 1–1 with a bicycle kick. AEK went on to win the match 4–3.
In July 2012 Vargas agreed to have his contract terminated in order for AEK to pay off club debts.

Deportivo La Equidad

In July 2016 Vargas moved to La Equidad on a free transfer. In his game against his former club América de Cali he played his 600th match as a professional football player.

Style of play

Vargas is a player with a physical approach to the game which earned him a reputation for being a dirty player. His nickname is el perro.

Honours

Club

América de Cali
Internacional
Boca Juniors
Colombia