Leonardo Madelón: "We've got what it takes, fans just need to be patient" | OneFootball

Leonardo Madelón, Unión’s coach, analyzed his team’s 0-0 draw against Platense at the 15 de Abril stadium, a match corresponding to the first round of the 2026 Apertura Tournament. The Head Coach highlighted the point earned, the team’s performance, and expectations for the future, in addition to discussing the transfer market.

Match and Opponent Assessment

Madelón valued the point gained, even though the team had clear chances they couldn’t convert. “The feeling is, first, to get a point; today the opponent and the match were extremely tough,” he said. The coach was surprised by the visiting team’s approach: “It’s a team that surprised me with a very good proposal.”

Unión felt the physical toll at the start, but then settled in. “At first, it was hard for us to get into the game. And it’s a team that strengthened well because they have Libertadores cups,” Madelón commented. Despite this, the team “ran, covered almost all the kilometers every match” and “we defended very well.”

Scoring Chances and Fans’ Impatience

The team had opportunities, like those from Fragapane, Palavecino, and Colazo, though they weren’t very clear. Madelón referred to a specific play by Palavecino that angered the fans: “I told Palavecino, if I were in the stands, I’d get mad at you too.” However, he defended the player and encouraged him to keep trying: “Keep missing, my friend, because when it goes in, everyone will come to hug you.”

Transfer Market and Reinforcements

The transfer window is closing soon, and although the coach doesn’t handle the numbers, he confirmed that Brian Cuello’s arrival is finalized. “Cuello is an explosive player who can play on the left or right,” he detailed, and “he’ll adapt quickly, he’s a good person.”

Regarding the possible arrival of Mauri Martínez, the situation is complicated. “Mauri Martínez finished his contract as a central defender, he said until January 31 we’re not going to negotiate.” Madelón clarified: “Now it’s an issue between clubs and the owner of the transfer rights. So it’s not easy.”

They tried for other players like Saravia and Iván Gómez, but those didn’t work out. Madelón acknowledged that the market is “extremely tough.”

Youth Players and Objectives

Madelón highlighted the importance of strengthening the club with youth players and the debut of Misael Aguirre. “I really liked what Mansilla did, he brought composure.”

The goal for this short tournament is clear: “To grow, to keep improving.” The coach believes these types of tournaments are there to be taken advantage of, though he knows it’s not easy. “The objective is to improve ourselves and if we make it into the playoffs, well, to get into the top 8, the best of the 16,” he concluded.

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