Continuing our alphabetical world tour, next up is Bolivia. One of the least successful nations in a viciously competitive South American federation, just two players have represented La Verde in the Premier League, according to the Premier League website.
First Player – Jaime Moreno (Middlesbrough; 1995-96)
After making two appearances at the 1994 World Cup at the age of 20, Jaime Moreno moved to second-tier side Middlesbrough as a young attacking prospect.
He played sparingly as they won promotion to the Premier League, and despite his playing time failing to improve as Boro retained their Premier League status in 1995/96, Moreno’s seven appearances made him the first Bolivian to appear in the Premier League.
He then moved to American club DC United, briefly returning to the Riverside on loan. Moreno enjoyed a 17-year international career, scoring nine goals in 75 appearances.
Records
- Most Appearances – Marcelo Moreno (12)
- First appearance – Jaime Moreno (Newcastle 1-0 MIDDLESBROUGH, August 30th 1995)
- Most goals – None
- First goal – N/A
Other Players
The only other Bolivian Premier League player was Marcelo Moreno, who, like his namesake Jaime, arrived in English football as an attacking prospect. Also like Jaime, he failed to make an impact, and even the most hardcore Wigan fans would be hard-pressed to recall the Bolivian’s 12-game, goalless spell.
Trivia
- Marcelo Moreno is currently Bolivia’s second-highest goal scorer (18) and joint-ninth highest appearance maker (76).
- Jaime Moreno is the fourth-highest goalscorer in MLS history (133) and the highest non-US player.
- No CONMEBOL nation has had less Premier League players than Bolivia (Venezuela also two).
