17 Facts About Franco Costanzo

Franco Costanzo has earned the reputation of being an eccentric goalkeeper by often dribbling the ball past the opposition's strikers and by making somewhat unorthodox saves.

Early in his career, Costanzo was once considered an excellent prospect; however, due to a few lengthy injuries, he has only recently managed to fulfill his full potential.

Franco Costanzo started playing professionally with Buenos Aires giants Club Atletico River Plate in 2000 and made his first-team debut in 2001.

Franco Costanzo had become the first-choice goalkeeper by 2002 and was looked upon by many as one of the most talented goalkeepers in South America.

Franco Costanzo was first choice at Alaves straight away, but when they were relegated into the Segunda Division, he asked the manager, Jose Maria Salmeron, to be put on the transfer list.

Franco Costanzo played in seven of these eight matches, missing the Krakow match due to him being dismissed with a red card in the match against Nancy.

Franco Costanzo earned much praise, especially for his part in helping the team earn a valuable away point against NK Dinamo Zagreb in the hostile atmosphere of the Maksimir Stadium on 8 November 2007.

Franco Costanzo missed the second leg due to a knee injury in the first leg.

Franco Costanzo was fined by the club and given a three match ban by the Swiss Football Association.

Franco Costanzo played for FC Basel for five years, in which time they won the Swiss Cup three times and the national Championship three times.

Franco Costanzo played his last match for the team on 25 May 2011 and was substituted out in the 87th minute to a standing ovation.

Franco Costanzo was replaced by his designated successor Yann Sommer.

On 9 June 2011, it was revealed that Franco Costanzo came to an agreement with Greek champions Olympiacos FC for a three-year contract.

Six months later, on 26 January 2012, Franco Costanzo's contract was terminated by mutual consent.

On 21 May 2012, Franco Costanzo retired from professional football without saying clearly the reason of his decision.

On 29 June 2013, Franco Costanzo returned to football signing for Universidad Catolica a one-and-a-half-year contract.

Franco Costanzo was an Argentine international at Under-20 level, and was part of the Argentina squad that took part at the 1999 FIFA World Youth Championship.