1. Overview
Omar Ruben Larrosa (born November 18, 1947, in Lanús, Buenos Aires) is a revered Argentine former professional footballer and coach. Primarily a midfielder, Larrosa's career is marked by significant club success and a pivotal role in the Argentina national team's historic victory at the 1978 FIFA World Cup. His journey through various prominent Argentine clubs, coupled with his contribution to the national team's highest achievement, underscores a career dedicated to the sport, culminating in his current role as an assistant coach at Boca Juniors. Larrosa's career exemplifies the collective effort and spirit vital to team success in football.
2. Early Life
Omar Ruben Larrosa was born on November 18, 1947, in Lanús, a city located in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Details regarding his early background before his professional football career are not extensively documented, but his origins in a major footballing nation like Argentina set the stage for his future involvement in the sport.
3. Playing Career
Omar Larrosa's playing career spanned over a decade, seeing him evolve as a tenacious midfielder across several notable clubs in Argentina and a brief stint in Guatemala, alongside his significant contributions to the national team. His career began in 1967 and concluded in 1981, marked by both individual resilience and collective triumphs.
3.1. Club Career
Larrosa began his professional journey at Boca Juniors in 1967. However, his initial spell was brief, as he soon departed the club. For the 1969 season, he joined Argentinos Juniors. Despite the team's struggles, Larrosa's individual performance was noteworthy, leading to an invitation for his return to Boca Juniors. In the 1970 season, back with Boca, he secured his first major trophy, winning the Nacional championship, though he did not feature in the final match against Rosario Central.
The subsequent season, in 1971, Larrosa ventured to Central America, joining Guatemalan champions CSD Comunicaciones. During his time there, he became a symbolic figure for the club, which was considered among the best in the region.
He returned to Argentina in 1972 to play for Huracán, a period that coincided with a relatively successful era for the club. With Huracán, Larrosa achieved significant domestic success, notably winning the Metropolitano title in 1973. Furthermore, the club finished as runners-up in the Metropolitano championships of both 1975 and 1976, and reached the semi-finals of the Nacional in 1976, showcasing a strong and consistent team performance.
In 1977, Larrosa transferred to Independiente, where he spent what are often regarded as his "golden years" as a player, from 1977 to 1980. During this period, he was instrumental in helping Independiente secure back-to-back Nacional titles in 1977 and 1978, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in successful teams.
After leaving Independiente in 1980, Larrosa had a short spell with Vélez Sársfield before joining San Lorenzo. The 1981 season at San Lorenzo proved to be disastrous for the club, culminating in their historic relegation from the Primera División for the first time. This unforeseen turn of events prompted Larrosa's decision to retire from professional football at the age of 34.
3.2. International Career
Omar Larrosa's international career was concise but impactful, culminating in the highest achievement in global football. He represented the Argentina national football team from 1977 to 1978. His most significant contribution came as a member of the Argentina squad that triumphed at the 1978 FIFA World Cup, which was held on home soil.
In the historic 1978 FIFA World Cup Final against the Netherlands, Larrosa came on as a substitute in the 65th minute of the match. At the time of his entry, Argentina held a 1-0 lead. However, the Netherlands managed to equalize in the 82nd minute, pushing the game into extra time. During the extra period, Argentina demonstrated superior resolve, scoring two additional goals to secure a definitive 3-1 victory and claim their first World Cup title. Larrosa's presence in this pivotal match solidified his place in Argentine football history.
3.3. Retirement from Playing
Omar Larrosa's retirement from professional football came in 1981, at the age of 34. His decision was notably influenced by the challenging circumstances at his final club, San Lorenzo. The 1981 season was exceptionally difficult for San Lorenzo, ending in the club's relegation from the Primera División for the first time in its long history. This significant setback for such a prominent club played a direct role in Larrosa's decision to conclude his active playing career.
4. Career Statistics
The following table summarizes Omar Larrosa's official playing statistics at both club and international levels:
| Team | Period | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina national football team | 1977-1978 | 11 | 0 |
| Primera División Argentina (Total) | 1967-1981 | 509 | 85 |
5. Honours
Throughout his distinguished playing career, Omar Larrosa accumulated several major team titles at both club and international levels.
5.1. Club
- Boca Juniors
- Nacional: 1970
- CSD Comunicaciones
- Liga Nacional de Fútbol de Guatemala: 1971
- Huracán
- Metropolitano: 1973
- Independiente
- Nacional: 1977, 1978
5.2. International
- Argentina
- FIFA World Cup: 1978
6. Coaching Career
Following his retirement as a player, Omar Larrosa transitioned into coaching, contributing his extensive experience to various teams. He served as a manager for Huracán in 1998, returning to a club where he had enjoyed significant playing success. Subsequently, he managed Selangor F.C. in Malaysia in 2004. Currently, Omar Larrosa holds the position of assistant coach at Boca Juniors, the club where he began and ended his illustrious playing career.