Navia was a member of the Chile national squad that competed in the 2000 Summer Olympics at Sydney, making an offensive duo with the historic Chilean striker Ivan Zamorano and earning a bronze medal.

Born and raised in Quillota, he joined Santiago Wanderers youth ranks for made his professional debut with the team in 1995, aged 17.

In December 2003, was announced that América's Dutchman coach Leo Beenhakker was interested in having Navia in his squad after his notable season in Morelia.

On 26 December, it was announced that Navia signed a three-year contract with América, receiving a salary of $1.4 million per season for an undisclosed fee.

On 11 March, Navia scored an important goal for the Libertadores in a 2–1 win over São Caetano with an impressive header at the 85th minute.

[8] On 23 July 2005, Navia back to play for América after eight months for the Campeón de Campeones final as a 30th-minute substitution in a 0–0 draw against Pumas UNAM.

[9] In October, was revelated that La Liga side Racing de Santander are interesting on sign to Navia in a six-month loan.

[10] In December 2005, Monterrey's coach Miguel Herrera confirmed the arrival of Navia to The Striped Ones for replace to Guillermo Franco.

Shortly after his arrival he looked his move to Quito as a chance for return to the Chile national team after an abrupt departure after of the Copa América 2007.

[13] His debut came on 14 August for the first round Copa Sudamericana against Bolívar, game on that he scored the club's fourth goal in a 4–2 victory.

[17] On 21 December 2008, he played in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup against Manchester United as an 87th-minute substitution for Luis Bolaños.

In December 2009, he failed to join to CD Veracruz, because the known 'gentlemen's deal' that he agreed when he played for América in 2004 and shortly after he was released, for the pact the 'eagles' charged US$300.000.

On 5 March 2011, it was announced that Navia returned to Chilean football for join Ñublense, replacing Luis Flores Abarca, who retired due to heart problems.

[24] Navia was a frequent player at forward for the Chile national team, where he wore Iván Zamorano's classic number; 9.