💎 Gago backs the academy: Matías Riquelme, the new gem at La U | OneFootball

Since Fernando Gago arrived on the Universidad de Chile bench, the team has not only improved its level of play, but also adopted a renewed focus on the youth ranks. The Argentine coach has set his sights on Matías Riquelme, an 18-year-old midfielder who promises to become the new engine of the university side.

A debut with a captain’s stamp

Riquelme, who has worn the captain’s armband at every youth level of the club, finally made the leap to the professional game. After being noticed by Francisco Meneghini during preseason, it was Gago who gave him his first 20 official minutes in the Copa de la Liga clash against Audax Italiano. His physical presence and strong character have won over the current coaching staff.

The future of Azul midfield

With a good touch and an eye for goal, the young midfielder is emerging as an in-house solution for Gago. The manager is looking to "polish" this talent developed at the CDA in order to establish him in the first team, showing that the renewal process at la "U" is also being built from within.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 ULISES RUIZ - AFP or licensors