Javi Chica


Francisco Javier "Javi" Chica Torres is a Spanish former professional footballer. Capable of appearing at either right or left-back, his main asset was his physical strength.
He spent the better part of his professional career with Espanyol, appearing in 136 competitive matches over a 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 appeared in 27 La Liga games in his first year, adding ten as the club went all the way to the final of the UEFA Cup, losing it to fellow Spaniards 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 left-back.

Betis

In late May 2011, free agent Chica signed a four-year contract with Real Betis, recently returned to the top division. He made his official debut on 27 August, starting at right-back 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 3–1 loss at Rayo Vallecano; the Andalusians also suffered relegation at the end of the campaign after finishing 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 the Segunda División. He totalled 60 games during his stint at the Estadio José Zorrilla.

Later career

Chica returned to his native region in January 2017, joining Segunda División B side UE Llagostera. Before retiring in 2019 at the age of 34, he spent one year with amateurs FE Grama.
In summer 2020, Chica returned to Espanyol as youth coach.

Honours

Espanyol
Spain U19