Ricardo Cabanas-Rey: A Career Profile of the Swiss Midfielder
Ricardo Cabanas-Rey is a distinguished former professional footballer who left a significant mark on Swiss football during the turn of the millennium. Operating as a midfielder—the tactical engine of a team responsible for linking defense and attack—Cabanas-Rey was known for his consistency and versatility across various European leagues.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Ricardo Cabanas-Rey
- Date of Birth: 17 January 1979
- Nationality: Swiss
- Primary Position: Midfielder
- International Caps: 51 appearances for Switzerland
- Total Club Appearances: 342
- Total Club Goals: 64
Early Life and Youth Development
Born in Zürich, Switzerland, Cabanas-Rey began his journey in football at a young age. He spent his early formative years from 1986 to 1992 with SCI Juventus Zürich, where he developed the fundamental skills required for professional play. In 1992, he moved to Grasshoppers, one of Switzerland's most prominent clubs, where he spent five years in the youth system before transitioning to the senior squad.
Professional Club Career
Cabanas-Rey's professional career is most closely associated with Grasshoppers Zürich. He first broke into the senior team in 1997, establishing himself as a core member of the squad. Over two separate stints with the club, he became a mainstay in the midfield, totaling 284 appearances and scoring 62 goals.
Seeking international experience, Cabanas-Rey ventured abroad twice. Between 2003 and 2004, he joined the French side Guingamp on loan, making 17 appearances. Later, from 2006 to 2007, he moved to Germany to play for 1. FC Köln, where he featured in 41 matches and scored 2 goals before returning to his roots at Grasshoppers in 2007.
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Career Statistics Summary
| Team | Years | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grasshoppers | 1997–2006, 2007–2012 | 284 | 62 |
| Guingamp (loan) | 2003–2004 | 17 | 0 |
| 1. FC Köln | 2006–2007 | 41 | 2 |
| Total | 1997–2012 | 342 | 64 |
International Representation
On the global stage, Ricardo Cabanas-Rey was a reliable asset for the Switzerland national team. Between 2000 and 2008, he earned 51 caps, contributing 4 goals to the national effort. Additionally, he represented Galicia in two matches between 2005 and 2008.
Frequently Asked Questions
What position did Ricardo Cabanas-Rey play?
He played as a midfielder throughout his professional career.
Which club did he spend the majority of his career with?
He spent the majority of his career with Grasshoppers Zürich, playing there from 1997 to 2006 and again from 2007 to 2012.
How many international matches did he play for Switzerland?
He earned 51 caps for the Switzerland national team between 2000 and 2008.
Did he play in any foreign leagues?
Yes, he played in France for Guingamp (on loan) and in Germany for 1. FC Köln.
What are his total career goals at the club level?
He scored a total of 64 goals across 342 club appearances.