While shining in Europe, Joaquín Panichelli leaves the door open for a return to River: 'I'd like to come back.'

Joaquín Panichelli, who was once considered one of the great prospects from the youth divisions of River, made the decision to leave Núñez before making his debut in the First Division. At the beginning of 2023, the forward chose not to sign his first professional contract and to try his luck in Europe. Almost three years later, he has established himself as a key player for Racing de Estrasburgo, where he is experiencing the best moment of his career, comfortable both in football and financially.

Despite his success on the Old Continent, Panichelli left the door open for a possible return to River in the future: "I can only thank River because I wanted to leave, there were many players in my position. At some point I'd like to come back, who wouldn't?" he said on Radio La Red. He added: "Whenever I can, I try to watch the matches. River is the greatest club in Argentina. I'm grateful because it allowed me to be where I am now. I don't call it revenge, but it would be nice to return".

Months ago, while he was still wearing the Mirandés jersey in Spain, Panichelli explained the reasons that led him to leave River: "I was well aware that it was difficult for me to be promoted to the First Division and it was never a complaint of mine to the club. So, when the opportunity arose to come to Alavés and start building a career in Europe, I decided to take it".

The forward explained that at River he was never guaranteed a place in the first team, and the competition with players like Miguel Borja, Lucas Beltrán, and Salomón Rondón made his continuity difficult: "Weighing the chance to come to Spain or stay at River and not have a place because Borja and Beltrán were there, I prioritized making the leap to Europe rather than perhaps being left out or loaned to another club" he explained.

His performance at Estrasburgo

Since his arrival at the French team, Panichelli has played 10 matches, scored 7 goals, has not yet recorded any assists, and has received one yellow card. Without a doubt, the Argentine striker has started with an outstanding performance and continues to establish himself as one of the promising talents exported from Argentine football.