Gary Medel Biography: Height, Children, Ethnicity, Football Clubs, Wife, Contracts, Age, Awards, Religion

Gary Alexis Medel Soto, nicknamed “Pitbull,” is a Chilean professional footballer renowned for his fierce tenacity, leadership, and versatility as a centre-back or defensive midfielder.

He has enjoyed a storied career across top European clubs like Inter Milan, Sevilla, and Cardiff City, while captaining Chile to back-to-back Copa América titles in 2015 and 2016, cementing his status as one of the nation’s greatest defenders.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Gary Alexis Medel Soto
• Stage Name: Pitbull
• Born: August 3, 1987
• Age: 38 years old
• Birthplace: Santiago, Chile
• Nationality: Chilean
• Occupation: Professional Footballer
• Height: 1.71m
• Parents: Luis Medel, Marisol Soto
• Siblings: Kevin Medel (brother)
• Spouse: Cristina Morales (m. 2017)
• Children: Gary Stevens, Alejandro Isaac; Alessandra and Danilo
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $30 million

Early Life and Education

Gary Alexis Medel Soto was born on August 3, 1987, in Santiago, Chile, to Luis Medel and Marisol Soto.

He grew up in a football-oriented family with his brother Kevin Medel, who also played professionally.

From a young age, Gary showed promise in the sport, joining Universidad Católica’s youth system.

Specific details on formal education beyond high school are not publicly available.

His ethnicity is Chilean, and his religion is unknown.

Career

Gary Medel began his professional journey with Universidad Católica in 2007, quickly establishing himself as a combative midfielder before moving to Argentine side Boca Juniors in 2009.

His aggressive style and work rate earned him the “Pitbull” moniker and paved the way for European moves, starting with Sevilla in 2011, where he adapted to centre-back and helped the club win the Europa League.

He shone at Cardiff City (2013–2014), Inter Milan (2014–2017), and Besiktas, showcasing leadership and defensive grit in Serie A and beyond.

Internationally, he debuted for Chile in 2007, amassing over 160 caps and captaining La Roja to Copa América glory in 2015 and 2016, plus a Confederations Cup final appearance in 2017.

Later stints included Bologna, Vasco da Gama, and Boca Juniors.

Gary Medel returned to Universidad Católica in January 2025 on a deal running through 2026, closing the circle on his career while contributing experience to the Chilean Primera División side.

His legacy endures as a symbol of resilience, with record international appearances for Chile and a reputation as one of the most passionate players of his generation.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @gary_medel17

Personal Life

Gary Medel is currently 36 years old, born on August 3, 1987, in Santiago, Chile.

He married Spanish journalist Cristina Morales on July 7, 2017, and together they have two children, Alessandra and Danilo.

Gary also has twins, Gary Stevens and Alejandro Isaac, from a previous relationship with Alejandra Henríquez.

Known for his strong family values, he often shares special moments with his loved ones and maintains a grounded lifestyle despite his high-profile football career, skillfully balancing personal challenges while staying committed to both his sport and family life.

Net Worth

Gary Medel has an estimated net worth of $30 million.

His wealth primarily comes from high-earning contracts at clubs like Inter Milan and Besiktas, international bonuses from Chile’s Copa América successes, endorsements, and career-long earnings in top leagues.