Leonel Vangioni, the veteran left-back for Newell's Old Boys, has officially announced his farewell from the club after his last match against Talleres. The 37-year-old, who had two stints with the club, emphasized his pride and the emotional moments he experienced throughout his time.
On December 15, 2024, following the final whistle of Newell's 1-0 victory over Talleres, Vangioni spoke to reporters, making clear it was not just the end of his time with Newell's but also the start of new endeavors. "This was my last match with the Newell's jersey. I have decided to come this far; I am very proud. It has been a long, beautiful, and emotional experience," he stated, capturing the highs and lows of his footballing career.
Reflecting on his time, Vangioni expressed gratitude to various individuals. He said, "I want to thank my teammates, all the coaches who have come and gone, the management, and the fans. We have had a difficult year, and they have always been there for us." This acknowledgment reiterated the bond he shared with the players and the supporters, highlighting the challenges they faced together in the past season.
The left-back, known for his resilience both on and off the pitch, emphasized the badge over monetary incentives: "It’s a pride to have worn these colors; sometimes things don’t turn out as one hopes. What matters is the desire to help from within and to endure everything." This perspective speaks volumes about his commitment not just to the team but also to the deep-rooted culture of Newell's Old Boys.
Vangioni's loyalty and passion were evident as he spoke about the club's future. "I leave knowing the club is in good hands; the group is strong, and much of this is thanks to Mariano (Soso)," he remarked, indicating confidence in the team’s management and direction moving forward.
Notably, Vangioni's decision to depart does not mean retirement; he plans to continue playing professionally, eyeing opportunities with other clubs. This announcement reveals a door closing but another opening, as many fans and teammates will be eager to see where his next chapter leads.
Alongside Vangioni's departure, the future of several other players at Newell's remains uncertain. Contracts are expiring, and there are speculations about the status of Rodrigo Fernández Cedrés, Augusto Schott, Esteban Fernández, and goalkeeper Ramiro Macagno. These potential changes could significantly impact the team’s dynamics as they seek to rebuild for the next season.
With Vangioni’s contributions as part of Newell's history now concluded, supporters and players alike will reflect on the significant impact of his leadership and experience. His farewell match served not just as his last appearance wearing Newell's colors but as a poignant reminder of the shared struggles and achievements during his time.
Leonel Vangioni undoubtedly leaves behind a legacy at Newell's Old Boys, having affected countless hearts, and as fans wish him well, they also cling to hope for the future of their beloved club. The upcoming transfer window promises to reshape the team, and many will watch closely to see how Newell's responds to the challenges at hand.
