Full Name: Paulo Bruno Exequiel Dybala
Birthday: November 15, 1993
Birth Place: Laguna Larga, Argentina
Height: 1.77 m
Playing Position: Second Striker, Attacking Midfielder
Current Team: Roma
Former Clubs: Instituto, Palermo, Juventus
Partner: Oriana Sabatini (since 2018)
Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Background and Early Life
Born in the small town of Laguna Larga in Argentina‘s Córdoba region, Dybala developed a love for fútbol at a young age, often playing on the streets with friends. His family later moved to the larger city of Córdoba where Dybala honed his skills at local club Instituto‘s youth academy.
Rising Through the Ranks at Instituto
Dybala turned professional with Instituto in 2011 at age 17, making his league debut against Independiente Rivadavia. His pace and dribbling ability immediately caught the eye – he scored his first senior goal the following year against Crucero del Norte.
Despite his tender age, Dybala‘s leadership qualities were evident. He became Instituto captain in 2012, leading the club to promotion to the Argentine Primera División.
Transfer to Palermo
In 2012, Serie A side Palermo bought Dybala for €12 million. It was a huge leap moving directly from Argentina‘s second division to a top European league.
But Dybala adapted seamlessly – he scored on debut versus Lazio and finished his first season with five goals. Under new manager Beppe Iachini, Dybala thrived in a free-roaming attacker role behind the strikers.
The 2014-15 season was Dybala‘s breakout year. He netted 13 goals as Palermo qualified for the Europa League, earning the nickname "La Joya" (The Jewel) for his skills and rising value.
Juventus Came Calling
In 2015, Italian powerhouse Juventus signed Dybala for €40 million to replace the outbound Carlos Tevez. Paired up front with fellow Argentine Gonzalo Higuaín, Dybala excelled in his first season – winning Serie A, Coppa Italia and reaching the Champions League final.
He was named Serie A Young Player of the Year after contributing 19 goals and 9 assists in all competitions. Over the next six seasons, Dybala cemented his status as a Juve icon. His highlights included:
- Double-digit goals in six straight seasons
- 115 goals overall for Juventus
- 2020-21 Serie A MVP after 17 league goals
- Five league titles and four Italian Cups
- Reaching the 2017 Champions League final
With his mask celebrations, acrobatic goals and creative playmaking, Dybala became a huge fan favorite in Turin.
International Career
Dybala earned his first Argentina cap in 2015 and has played 34 times for his country so far. He helped Argentina reach the Copa América finals in 2015 and 2016 and was part of their 2018 World Cup squad.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Dybala has yet to fully cement a starting role due to intense competition. But at 28, his best years for Argentina likely lie ahead.
Playing Style
Standing at just 5ft 9in, Dybala relies on low center of gravity, balance, acceleration, and technique to outfox opponents. He possesses sensational close control with either foot and can slalom past defenders with ease.
While comfortable leading the line, Dybala does his best work operating between the lines as a number 10. From this deep role, he uses his vision, passing range and runs off the ball to unlock defenses.
Dybala also boasts a lethal left foot – he is clinical from both open play and set pieces. While not the most physical, Dybala‘s football intelligence allows him to find pockets of space and evade challenges.
Joining Roma
With his Juventus contract expiring, Dybala moved to Serie A rivals Roma as a free agent in 2022. Paulo was warmly welcomed by fans eager to see his magic lift the Giallorossi.
Still only 28, Dybala likely has his peak years ahead. His move to Roma will rejuvenate his motivation levels and give Italian fans the chance to continue enjoying his dazzling displays.
Conclusion
From humble beginnings in Argentina to stardom in Europe, Paulo Dybala‘s journey has been remarkable. With his creativity, skill, and infectious joy, Dybala has established himself as one of football‘s most popular entertainers. And at just 28, the next chapters of his glittering story have yet to be written.
