Challenges Faced by Luis Suárez: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Luis Suárez's life and career.

Luis Suárez is a Uruguayan professional footballer, currently playing for Inter Miami. Widely considered one of the best strikers of his generation, he is known for his goal-scoring prowess, movement, and finishing ability. Nicknamed "El Pistolero," Suárez has an impressive record, exceeding 500 career goals. He has won numerous individual awards, including two European Golden Shoes, an Eredivisie Golden Boot, a Premier League Golden Boot, and a Pichichi Trophy, solidifying his place among football's elite.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

January 2007: Disciplinary Issues at Groningen

In January 2007, Suárez faced disciplinary problems at Groningen, receiving three yellow cards and one red card in a five-game stretch, despite scoring four goals.

2007: Trophyless Season since 2007-08

In 2007, Barcelona suffered a trophyless season.

May 2013: Suárez seeks Liverpool exit

In May 2013, Luis Suárez expressed his desire to leave Liverpool, citing excessive media attention on his family as the primary reason.

2014: Biting Giorgio Chiellini

In a Group D match at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Suárez bit Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini, resulting in FIFA suspending him from all football activities for 4 months.

2014: Suárez suspended after biting incident

Throughout 2014, Luis Suárez faced a suspension after biting Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, resulting in a four-month ban from all "football-related activities". An appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) led to the removal of the "football-related activities" ban, allowing him to train with Barcelona.

2015: Suárez banned from Copa América

In 2015, Luis Suárez was banned from participating in the 2015 Copa América due to his existing suspension.

2015: Banned from 2015 Copa América

Suárez's ban for biting Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup meant he would take no part in the 2015 Copa América.

2018: Copa America Centenario Hamstring Injury

In 2018, Suárez was included in Uruguay's 23-man squad for the Copa América Centenario, although a hamstring injury sustained in the Copa del Rey final on 22 May put his place in the team in jeopardy and he missed several games.

January 2020: Knee surgery confirmed

In January 2020, Barcelona confirmed that Suárez would undergo a surgery, potentially sidelining him for four months, following a knee injury sustained during a defeat against Atlético in the Supercopa de España.

August 2020: Informed by Koeman he was no longer wanted

In August 2020, after Ronald Koeman became Barcelona's head coach, he informed Suárez that he was no longer wanted by the club.

2023: Negotiations to shorten contract with Grêmio

In July 2023, Suárez negotiated with Grêmio to shorten his contract due to knee issues exacerbated by the intense schedule of the Brazilian league, with the contract being shortened to the end of 2023.