Sergio Leonel “Kun” Agüero is a name synonymous with goals, passion, and footballing excellence. A retired professional footballer from Argentina, Agüero is regarded as one of the greatest strikers of his generation. Known for his agility, clinical finishing, and ability to deliver in critical moments, Agüero has left an indelible mark on the world of football.
Born on June 2, 1988, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Agüero’s journey from a humble neighborhood to the pinnacle of football is an inspiring tale of talent, hard work, and dedication. From his remarkable career at Manchester City to his contributions to the Argentine national team, Agüero remains a legend both on and off the pitch.
Age and Early Life
As of 2024, Sergio Agüero is 36 years old. He was born in the bustling city of Buenos Aires and grew up in humble surroundings. Agüero’s love for football began at an early age, influenced by the vibrant football culture of Argentina.
Agüero earned the nickname “Kun” after a Japanese cartoon character because of his resemblance to the character as a child. This nickname stuck with him throughout his career, becoming an iconic part of his identity.
Agüero joined the youth academy of Independiente, one of Argentina’s most historic clubs, at the age of nine. His prodigious talent was evident from the start, and he became the youngest player to debut in the Argentine Primera División at just 15 years and 35 days old.
Family
Sergio Agüero was born to Leonel del Castillo and Adriana Agüero, who played a pivotal role in his upbringing. His father worked as a taxi driver, and his mother managed the household. Agüero often credits his parents for instilling in him the values of hard work and determination.
Agüero was previously married to Gianinna Maradona, the daughter of football legend Diego Maradona. The couple has a son, Benjamin Agüero, born in 2009. Benjamin is frequently seen with his father, and fans speculate whether he might follow in the footsteps of his legendary family.
Height and Physical Features
Sergio Agüero stands at 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) and weighs approximately 170 pounds (77 kg). Despite not being the tallest striker, Agüero’s low center of gravity, explosive pace, and sharp agility allowed him to outmaneuver taller defenders.
His compact physique and athleticism, combined with his remarkable technical skills, made him one of the most feared strikers in football history.
Career Milestones
Early Career at Independiente
Agüero made his professional debut for Independiente in 2003, becoming the youngest player to feature in Argentina’s top division. His performances for the club, including 23 goals in 56 appearances, attracted attention from top European clubs.
Atletico Madrid (2006–2011)
In 2006, Agüero signed with Atletico Madrid in Spain’s La Liga. He quickly became a fan favorite, scoring crucial goals and forming a deadly partnership with teammates.
- Achievements: Agüero helped Atletico Madrid win the UEFA Europa League in 2010 and the UEFA Super Cup later that year.
- Statistics: He scored 101 goals in 234 appearances for the club, cementing his reputation as one of the best young talents in Europe.
Manchester City (2011–2021)
Agüero’s move to Manchester City in 2011 marked the beginning of a golden era for both the player and the club. He became the club’s all-time leading scorer, with 260 goals in 390 appearances.
- Key Achievements:
- 5 Premier League Titles
- 1 FA Cup
- 6 League Cups
- Iconic Moment: Agüero’s 93:20 goal against Queens Park Rangers on the final day of the 2011–12 season secured Manchester City’s first Premier League title in dramatic fashion. The moment is widely regarded as one of the greatest in football history.
Barcelona and Retirement
In 2021, Agüero signed with FC Barcelona, but his career was cut short due to a heart condition. He announced his retirement in December 2021, ending a glittering career that spanned nearly two decades.
International Career
Agüero was an integral part of the Argentina national team, earning 101 caps and scoring 41 goals.
- Olympic Gold: Agüero was part of the Argentina squad that won gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, playing alongside Lionel Messi.
- Copa América Glory: In 2021, Agüero finally won his first major international trophy as Argentina triumphed in the Copa América.
- World Cup: He represented Argentina in three FIFA World Cups, including the 2014 edition, where they reached the final.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Sergio Agüero’s estimated net worth is $80 million. His wealth comes from:
- Salaries and bonuses during his playing career.
- Sponsorships and endorsements with brands like Puma and Pepsi.
- Post-retirement ventures, including his popular Twitch streaming channel, where he interacts with fans and shares gaming content.
Agüero’s earnings reflect his global appeal as one of football’s most marketable stars.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Sergio Agüero has always been involved in philanthropic activities. He supports various charitable initiatives, including programs for underprivileged children in Argentina. Agüero’s commitment to giving back to his community highlights his generosity and sense of responsibility.
His legacy as a footballer is unparalleled. From his iconic moments at Manchester City to his contributions to Argentina’s success, Agüero’s career is a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide.
Personal Life
Outside football, Agüero is known for his love of gaming and streaming. His Twitch channel has become immensely popular, allowing fans to see a different side of his personality.
Agüero is also passionate about cars, often sharing glimpses of his impressive collection on social media. Despite his fame, he remains grounded and values spending time with his family and close friends.
Lesser-Known Facts About Sergio Agüero
- Nickname Origin: The nickname “Kun” comes from a Japanese anime character named “Kum-Kum,” which Agüero resembled as a child.
- Record Breaker: Agüero holds the record for the most hat-tricks in Premier League history (12).
- Charity Work: He funds youth football programs in Argentina to provide opportunities for underprivileged kids.
- Twitch Star: His gaming streams often feature collaborations with other footballers and celebrities.
- Close Friendship: Agüero shares a deep friendship with Lionel Messi, often referring to him as a brother.
Style of Play and Influence
Agüero was known for his deadly finishing, intelligent positioning, and ability to score under pressure. His influence on modern football, particularly in the Premier League, is profound.
As a role model for young strikers, Agüero demonstrated that skill, determination, and a love for the game are key ingredients to success.
Legacy
Sergio Agüero’s legacy is cemented as one of the greatest strikers of all time. His contributions to Manchester City’s transformation into a global powerhouse and his role in Argentina’s international success make him a true football legend.
Fans will always remember Agüero for his humility, passion, and unforgettable moments on the pitch.
Conclusion
Sergio Agüero’s journey from a young boy in Buenos Aires to a global football icon is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. Whether as a record-breaking striker, a loyal teammate, or a beloved figure off the pitch, Agüero’s story continues to inspire millions around the world.
As he transitions into post-retirement life, fans eagerly await what this charismatic and talented legend will achieve next.