Javi Chica


Francisco Javier "Javi" Chica Torres is a Spanish footballer. Capable of appearing at either right or left back, his main asset is his physical strength.
He spent the better part of his professional career with Espanyol, appearing in 136 competitive matches during his five-year spell. In La Liga, he also represented Betis.

Club career

Espanyol

Born in Barcelona, Catalonia, Chica was a product of RCD Espanyol's youth system. He made his first-team debut on 15 October 2006 in a 0–0 away draw against Villarreal CF, and played 27 La Liga games in his first year, adding ten appearances as the team went all the way to the UEFA Cup final, losing it to fellow league side Sevilla FC.
Never an undisputed starter in the following seasons, Chica continued to be regularly used at Espanyol, featuring in an average of more than 20 matches per season as either a right or a left back.

Betis

In late May 2011, free agent Chica signed a four-year contract with Real Betis, freshly returned to the top division. He made his official debut on 27 August, starting at right defender in a 1–0 away win against Granada CF.
Chica scored his first goal as a senior on 20 April 2014, but it happened in a 1–3 loss at Rayo Vallecano, and the Andalusians also suffered relegation at the end of the campaign after ranking dead last.

Valladolid

On 9 July 2014, despite having still one year left on his Betis contract, Chica agreed to a two-year deal with Real Valladolid, also in Segunda División.

Honours

Club

Espanyol
Spain U19