Gary Alexis Medel Soto, or Gary Medel, is a Chilean professional footballer who plays for Brazilian Série A side Vasco da Gama and the Chile national team.
Born on August 3, 1987, in Santiago, Chile, Medel is a versatile player who can play center-back and defensive midfielder.
Here, you can follow Gary Medel’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Gary Medel’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Gary Medel’s net worth is estimated to be $16 million. His earnings come from his salary as a professional footballer, endorsements, and other sources.
Contract and Salary
Gary Medel, a 36-year-old defensive midfielder, plays for Vasco da Gama in the Brasileiro league. His contract with the club was signed on July 11, 2023, and is set to expire on December 31, 2024.
In terms of salary, Medel earns £8,200 per week, which equates to £426,400 per year.
Career Earnings
| Year | Weekly Wage | Yearly Salary | Club | Position | League |
| 2024 | £8,200 | £426,400 | Vasco da Gama | DC, DM | Brasileirão |
| 2023 | £33,000 | £1,716,000 | Bologna | DC, DM | Serie A |
| 2022 | £38,000 | £1,976,000 | Bologna | DC, DM | Serie A |
| 2021 | £41,000 | £2,132,000 | Bologna FC 1909 | D, DM, M | Serie A |
| 2020 | £39,000 | £2,028,000 | Bologna | DC, DM | Serie A |
Boot
Gary Medel wears Adidas Predator Accuracy.1 L soccer cleats in the 2022-2023 season.
About Gary Medel
| Full name | Gary Alexis Medel Soto |
| Nickname | Pitbull |
| Birth date | August 3, 1987 |
| Height | 1.71 m (5 ft 7 in) |
| Birthplace | Santiago, Chile |
| Nationality | Chilean |
| Current net worth | $16 million |
| Relationship status | Married |
| Wife | Cristina Morales |
| Instagram profile | @gary_medel17 |
Gary Medel was born in Santiago, Chile, on August 3, 1987. He began his football career at age 12, joining Universidad Católica.
His youth team coach, Mario Lepe, recognized his potential and put his name forward to join the senior ranks.
Medel’s performances quickly caught the attention of international clubs, leading to a transfer to Boca Juniors in Argentina, where he further developed his reputation as a reliable and tough-tackling defender.
Club Career
Significant achievements and transfers to clubs in different countries have marked Medel’s club career.
After his stint with Boca Juniors, he joined Sevilla in 2011 for €3 million on a 4+1⁄2-year contract.
He then moved to Cardiff City in 2013 for a club record £11 million fee on a four-year deal.
After Cardiff’s relegation, Medel joined Italian club Inter Milan in 2014 for a reported £10 million.
He moved to Beşiktaş in Turkey in 2017 and then back to Italy to join Bologna in 2019. As of 2023, he plays for Brazilian Série A side Vasco da Gama.
International Career
Medel has been a full Chilean international with over 150 caps since 2007.
He has represented the nation at two FIFA World Cups, five Copa América tournaments, and one edition of the FIFA Confederations Cup.
He was part of the squad that won the 2015 Copa América (for which he was named to the Team of the Tournament) and the Copa América Centenario (2016).
He was also included in squads that finished fourth at the 2019 Copa América and as the runners-up at the 2017 Confederations Cup.
Wife
Gary Medel, a Chilean professional footballer, is married to Cristina Morales. They met in 2013 when Medel played for Sevilla in Spain and married in 2017.
They have two children together, Alessandra and Danilo.
Career Stats
| Season | Club | League | Matches | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
| 2023 | Vasco da Gama | Série A | 8 | 0 | 0 | 706′ |
| 2022/23 | Bologna | Serie A | 29 | 0 | 1 | 1,477′ |
| 2022/23 | Bologna | Italy Cup | 2 | 0 | 0 | 111′ |
| 2021/22 | Bologna | Serie A | 33 | 0 | 1 | 2,830′ |
| 2021/22 | Bologna | Italy Cup | 1 | 0 | 0 | 37′ |
| 2020/21 | Bologna | Serie A | 11 | 0 | 1 | 510′ |
FAQs
Who is Gary Medel?
Gary Medel is a Chilean professional footballer who plays primarily as a defensive midfielder or center-back.
What position does Gary Medel play?
Medel typically plays defensive midfield. He is known for his tough tackling, leadership qualities, and versatility in defense.
Which clubs have Gary Medel played for?
Gary Medel has played for several clubs, including Universidad Católica, Boca Juniors, Sevilla, Inter Milan, Besiktas, and Bologna.
When and where was Gary Medel born?
Gary Medel was born in Santiago, Chile, on August 3, 1987.
What is Gary Medel’s playing style?
Medel is known for his aggressive playing style, exceptional work rate, and ability to break up opposition attacks. He is also known for his passing ability and tactical intelligence.
Has Gary Medel represented his national team?
Gary Medel has been a critical player for the Chilean national team, representing them in multiple Copa America tournaments and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
What are some of Gary Medel’s career achievements?
Medel has won domestic league titles with clubs in Chile, Argentina, and Italy. He has also played in UEFA Champions League and Europa League competitions.
What are Gary Medel’s notable strengths and weaknesses?
Strengths: Defensive capabilities, leadership, versatility, and ability to play multiple positions.
Weaknesses: His aggressive style of play can sometimes lead to disciplinary issues, and injuries have occasionally affected his availability.
What are Gary Medel’s career statistics?
Specific statistics such as appearances, goals, and assists can vary each season. However, Medel has been a consistent performer for both club and country.
Is Gary Medel known for any iconic moments or incidents in his career?
Gary Medel is known for his fiery temperament on the pitch. He often displays strong determination and commitment to his teams, which has endeared him to fans.
