Pablo Marí Villar, born on August 31, 1993, in Almussafes, Spain, is a professional footballer renowned for his role as a central defender. Standing at an impressive 1.93 meters (6 feet 4 inches), Marí’s defensive skills and commanding presence have defined his career. As of 2025, he plays for AC Monza in Italy’s Serie A.
Early Career and Development
Pablo Marí began his football journey with RCD Mallorca’s youth system, making his senior debut at just 17. His first-team debut came in a La Liga match against Granada CF, showcasing his potential early on. He continued to develop his skills with Mallorca’s B team, gaining valuable experience in Spain’s lower divisions.
Rising Through Spanish Clubs
In 2013, Marí signed with Gimnàstic de Tarragona, competing in Segunda División B. He became a key player, helping the team earn promotion to Segunda División. His consistent performances attracted the attention of major clubs, leading to his transfer to Manchester City in 2016.
International Experience and Loan Spells
Although Pablo Marí did not make a first-team appearance for Manchester City, he gained valuable experience through several loan spells:
- Girona FC: He contributed to Girona’s defensive efforts in Spain’s Segunda División during the 2016–2017 season.
- NAC Breda: In the 2017–2018 season, he played in the Dutch Eredivisie and captained the team, showcasing his leadership qualities.
- Deportivo de La Coruña: During the 2018–2019 season, he strengthened his reputation as a reliable central defender in Segunda División.
- Breakthrough with Flamengo
- In 2019, Marí’s career reached new heights when he joined Flamengo in Brazil. His impact was immediate, playing a pivotal role in Flamengo’s Copa Libertadores triumph and their Campeonato Brasileiro Série A victory that same year. His outstanding performances earned him a spot in the Série A Team of the Year, cementing his reputation on the international stage.
Move to Arsenal
In January 2020, Pablo Marí returned to Europe, joining Arsenal in the English Premier League. Initially arriving on loan, his transfer was later made permanent. He debuted for Arsenal in an FA Cup match and was part of the squad that won the 2019–2020 FA Cup.
Loan to Udinese and Transfer to Monza
Seeking regular playing time, Marí joined Udinese on loan in January 2022, where he made a significant impact with 15 appearances and two goals. His performances led to another loan spell with AC Monza in the 2022–2023 season. After a successful loan period, Monza secured Marí’s services permanently in 2023.
Personal Life and Resilience
Pablo Marí is married to Verónica Chacón, and the couple shares a son, Pablo Jr., born in 2018. In October 2022, Marí faced a life-threatening situation when he was stabbed during an attack in a Milan supermarket. Despite sustaining injuries, he demonstrated remarkable resilience, undergoing surgery and making a full recovery.
Current Status and Achievements
As of 2025, Pablo Marí remains a key figure in AC Monza’s defense. His journey from Spain’s lower leagues to top-tier football across multiple countries showcases his adaptability and determination. His contributions to every team he has played for underline his defensive capabilities and leadership on the pitch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pablo Marí
- What position does Pablo Marí play?
Pablo Marí is a central defender known for his height, strength, and tactical awareness. - What clubs has Pablo Marí played for?
He has played for clubs including RCD Mallorca, Gimnàstic de Tarragona, Manchester City, Girona FC, NAC Breda, Deportivo de La Coruña, Flamengo, Arsenal, Udinese, and AC Monza. - What are Pablo Marí’s career highlights?
Marí won the Copa Libertadores and Campeonato Brasileiro Série A with Flamengo in 2019 and was part of Arsenal’s FA Cup-winning squad in 2020. - What happened during the 2022 incident?
Marí was stabbed during a supermarket attack in Italy but recovered fully and returned to professional football. - What is Pablo Marí’s current club?
As of 2025, Pablo Marí plays for AC Monza in Serie A.
Conclusion
Pablo Marí’s career is a testament to his perseverance and adaptability. From his early days in Spain’s youth leagues to his achievements on international stages, he has consistently demonstrated his defensive prowess and leadership. Overcoming personal challenges, including a life-threatening incident, Marí has shown remarkable resilience, earning admiration from fans and peers alike. His story is one of determination, growth, and success in the world of football.
