La Derecha Diario 'Poor Salas!': the defense of a Racing idol for the forward after his move to River
A former Academy player called for empathy for the forward and supported his decision. Additionally, he discussed the club's current situation, recalled the 2001 title, and analyzed the new signings
Francisco "Panchito" Maciel, a symbol of Racing's 2001 championship team, came out to support Maximiliano Salas after his controversial move to River under Marcelo Gallardo.
Amid criticism from fans, the former defender called for understanding: "If you put yourself in the player's shoes, you have to understand that he gave everything for this jersey. He gave his all and became a champion. In every match, you could see his commitment. I think an opportunity came up, which for him was better, and as a professional, it's respectable".
The former player also emphasized that the transfer brought significant income to the institution and regretted the rejection the forward is experiencing: "Poor Salas! Today, he's in everyone's sights, but he prioritized his future and it's not that bad. The fans are upset and will surely boo him when he returns to the Cilindro, but we should try to focus on the good things he did for the club".
Maciel and his memories of the 2001 championship
The former player, who was a key piece in the defense of Mostaza Merlo's team, also spoke about the historic 2001 title: "It's crazy how time has passed. I meet fans who thank me as if it were yesterday. That moves you".
He also recalled that the championship was achieved in a critical social and economic context in the country: "With the country on fire, people stood in line for ten blocks to get a ticket. We trained inside the Cilindro and it felt like a match because of how loud the fans were outside".
His opinion on the current team and the transfer market
Asked about the current state of the team led by Gustavo Costas, Maciel expressed his excitement about the Copa Libertadores: "It's close, but it's very difficult. We have to remain calm, despite the fans' anxiety. Mostaza already said it: step by step".
Regarding the new signings for the Academia, he valued the arrival of Duván Vergara, Tomás Conechny, Elías Torres, and Alan Forneris, and highlighted the current tools for finding talent: "Today, you have all the data to bring in a Salas or a Maravilla. Those who have an eye for talent can make a difference, as Gustavo is doing".
Although he no longer has frequent contact with Diego Milito, he highlighted his work as president: "He has set the bar high because Racing had been winning. I hope he takes it even higher".
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