Hernán Jorge Crespo is a distinguished Argentine football coach and former professional player, renowned for his prolific career as a striker. Crespo began his professional journey at River Plate, where he made an immediate impact by scoring 13 goals in his debut season and helping the team secure the Apertura league title. His success continued as he played a pivotal role in River’s Copa Libertadores triumph in 1996, showcasing his talent on an international stage.
Crespo’s career took a significant turn when he transferred to Parma, where he overcame early challenges to become a key player, netting 80 goals over four seasons. His remarkable performance earned him a record-breaking transfer to Lazio, where he became Serie A’s top scorer with 26 goals in the 2000-01 season. Crespo’s ability to adapt and excel was further demonstrated during his time at Inter Milan and Chelsea, where he contributed to multiple league titles and cup victories, including a Premier League title with Chelsea.
Transitioning into coaching, Crespo has successfully managed several clubs, including Defensa y Justicia, where he led the team to their first international trophy by winning the Copa Sudamericana in 2021. His managerial prowess continued at São Paulo, where he secured the Campeonato Paulista, marking the club’s first major title in nine years.
Most recently, Crespo achieved remarkable success with Al-Duhail in Qatar, winning a treble of league and cup titles. His strategic acumen and leadership qualities have established him as a respected figure in football, both on and off the pitch.