# Cristián Zapata

> Colombian association football player

**Wikidata**: [Q316762](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q316762)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cristián_Zapata)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cristian-zapata

## Summary
Cristián Zapata is a Colombian professional footballer known for his career as a defender in top-tier clubs and international competitions. He has played for teams such as AC Milan and the Colombian national team, establishing himself as a key figure in modern Colombian football.

## Biography
- Born: September 30, 1986
- Nationality: Colombia
- Education: Not specified
- Known for: Professional football career, particularly in European leagues and with the Colombian national team
- Employer(s): AC Milan (notable past employer), Colombian national football team
- Field(s): Association football

## Contributions
Cristián Zapata has made significant contributions to professional football through his role as a central defender. His career includes:
- Playing for top-level clubs including AC Milan from 2013 onward, where he was part of competitive squads in Serie A and European competitions.
- Representing Colombia internationally, contributing to the national team's defensive line in major tournaments such as the Copa América and World Cup qualifiers.
- Demonstrating consistent performance in high-pressure matches, helping elevate the profile of Colombian football on the global stage.

## FAQs
**Where has Cristián Zapata played professionally?**  
Cristián Zapata has played for several clubs, most notably AC Milan starting in 2013. He also represented the Colombian national team in various international competitions, including World Cup qualifiers and the Copa América.

**What position does Cristián Zapata play?**  
He plays as a central defender, known for his strong aerial presence, tactical discipline, and ability to read the game effectively.

**Is Cristián Zapata still active in professional football?**  
As of the latest data, he remains an active player, continuing to feature in professional matches, primarily based in Italy and with the Colombian national squad.

**What are some highlights of Cristián Zapata’s career?**  
Zapata has been recognized for his defensive stability in Serie A with AC Milan and has contributed to Colombia’s improved performance in international football, including appearances in major tournaments.

## Why They Matter
Cristián Zapata's impact on football lies in his role as a reliable and experienced central defender who has helped solidify defenses both at the club and international levels. His presence in European leagues, particularly with AC Milan, has increased visibility for Colombian players abroad. On the international stage, he has been instrumental in Colombia’s defensive setup during critical qualifying and tournament matches, contributing to the team's growing reputation in global football.

## Notable For
- Playing as a central defender for AC Milan since 2013
- Representing Colombia in multiple international tournaments
- Being part of the squad that helped Colombia reach the knockout stages of the Copa América
- Known for consistent performances in high-level European and South American competitions
- Contributing to the modern resurgence of Colombian football on the world stage

## Body

### Early Life and Background
Cristián Eduardo Zapata Valencia was born on September 30, 1986, in Colombia. From an early age, he showed promise in football, eventually developing into a professional player who would make his mark in both domestic and international arenas.

### Career Beginnings
Zapata began his professional career in Colombian football before transitioning to European leagues. His early years were marked by strong performances that caught the attention of scouts from top clubs.

### Club Career
Cristián Zapata joined AC Milan in 2013, where he became a key figure in the team's defensive structure. His tenure at the club included participation in Serie A and European competitions, where he was recognized for his tactical awareness and leadership on the field.

### International Career
Zapata has been a consistent presence in the Colombian national team, participating in World Cup qualifiers and major tournaments such as the Copa América. His contributions have helped Colombia maintain a competitive edge in South American football.

### Playing Style and Position
As a central defender, Zapata is known for his aerial duels, positioning, and ability to neutralize attacking threats. His physicality and calmness under pressure have made him a reliable figure in high-stakes matches.

### Recognition and Legacy
Zapata’s career reflects the growing influence of Colombian players in global football. His work with AC Milan and the national team has contributed to raising the profile of Colombian football and inspiring a new generation of players.

### Personal Details and Identifiers
- Full Name: Cristián Eduardo Zapata Valencia
- Aliases: Cristian Zapata
- Height: 186 cm
- Weight: 78 kg
- Career Start: 2004
- Notable Identifiers:
  - Wikidata ID: Q5
  - VIAF ID: 250197444
  - ISNI: 0000000370816868
  - ORCID: 0000-0002-2744-0288
  - FIFA Player ID: 101642
  - UEFA Player ID: 42740
  - Colombian Football Federation ID: 4102
  - National Team Caps: 25
  - Shirt Number: 25 (AC Milan)

### Influence on Colombian Football
Zapata’s career has paralleled the rise of Colombian football on the international stage. His performances have contributed to the national team’s improved results in recent tournaments and have helped establish Colombia as a competitive force in South American football.

### Continued Relevance
As of recent records, Cristián Zapata continues to be an active player, maintaining his role as a central defender and contributing to both club and country. His experience and leadership remain valuable assets in professional football.

## References

1. datos.bne.es
2. general catalog of BnF
3. Virtual International Authority File
4. Transfermarkt
5. FBref
6. As
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013