The last years with Independiente were amazing. I lived great moments with Independiente, such as the two wins at home against Racing Club during the annual classic de Avellaneda. In those games, in 2004 and 2005, the atmosphere in the stadium was highly charged. I’m very happy to have played in such important games. I will remember these moments for the rest of my life.
Describe the passion for soccer in South America, notably in Argentina.
Soccer is embedded in our culture. That’s why I think there are so many good soccer players in Argentina. All young soccer players dream of becoming professional. A lot of sacrifices have to be made to reach the first division, but all players are ready to do it. If you’re not willing to do what it takes, another player will take your place. But once you’re at this level, you think about how your efforts were worth it. People are passionate and put a lot of pressure on players. If you’re responsible of a loss during an important game, people will blame you for a long time. But if you win, Argentinean fans are the best. An Argentinean pro soccer player will give all his life to the field. It’s in our culture to put our heart in the game.
"It’s in our culture to put our heart in the game."
Like all soccer players, did you have an idol? Did you have the chance to meet him? Do you still have a model of excellence?
When I joined Argentina’s U20 national team, I had the privilege to have a direct contact with great Argentina players like Hernan Crespo and Javier Saviola. Those players were my idols, but rubbing shoulders with them made me realize that they were normal people, as myself. I learned a lot from them. My idol is still Enzo Francescoli, who played more than 15 years on the Uruguayan national team. He also played with River Plate in Argentina.
In your career, how do you see your stay with the Impact?
It will be another experience for me as a player but also as a person. It’s the first time in my life that I’m away from Argentina. The timing was right when I met Joey Saputo and Nick De Santis this winter in Argentina. I didn’t know the Impact but I had heard about soccer in North America. So far, I have been very impressed by the organization. I also like the city, even if the winter was a bit too long and cold (laughs).
In your first season in the USL First Division, what are your goals?
I don’t have individual objectives but team goals. I want to play well to help the club win a championship. I know the team would like to win the playoff cup so I will do my best to make it happen. So far, I think that I have adjusted myself very well to the league’s style, so it’s positive for the team.
