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Professionals, 10. August 2018

A trio with good mentality

For the first time in VfB’s history, in Emiliano Insua, Santiago Ascacibar and Nicolás Gonzalez, there are simultaneously three Argentines in the squad.

In José Basualdo (1989-1991), Emanuel Centurion (2003-2006) and Mauro Camoranesi (2010-2011), who held both Italian as well as Argentine citizenship, previously, there were three Argentine players in the VfB ranks. In summer 2018, with Emiliano Insua, Santiago Ascacibar and Nicolás Gonzalez, there are now three Argentine players simultaneously in the squad: "We are very, very happy to have three such strong characters and highly professional players in our squad," commented VfB Sporting director Michael Reschke. www.vfb.de took a closer look at the three Argentine players in the VfB ranks:

Emiliano Insua – The Experienced One

At 29 years old, Emiliano Insua is not just the oldest, but also the most experienced of the three VfB Argentines. The left full-back began his footballing education with Boca Juniors, before making the move to England and Liverpool FC as an 18-year-old in 2007. VfB is now his sixth station in Europe.

Since the summer of 2015, the defender has been wearing the shirt with the infamous red hoop. And the number 2 has hardly missed a match since then – with the exception of a thigh injury following a foul side-lining him last season! In two Bundesliga season, Emiliano Insua made 58 appearances for VfB, whilst playing in all 34 games (one goal) during the second division season. Insua has also played in eight DFB-Cup games. His contract is valid until 2020, with the option of an extension until 2021.

With his experience to call upon, the defender can be a valuable asset to his younger fellow countrymen both on as well as off the pitch, even inviting Santiago Ascacibar and Nicolás Gonzalez to his home to eat from time to time. "I can very well understand their situation, as I also made the move to Europe as a young player. I am happy to help wherever I can. They have arrived in a foreign country, with an unfamiliar culture and language. I am trying to assist their integration. At the end of the day though, they must make their own way," commented Emiliano Insua.

VfB Sporting Director Michael Reschke: "We opted to extend Emiliano‘s contract in winter, not least because his very professional attitude makes his extremely important to the team both on as well as away from the pitch."

Santiago Ascacibar – The Ambitious One

Shortly before the start of the 2017/2018 season, Santiago Ascacibar made the move from Estudiantes de La Plata to VfB. The 21-year-old needed little time to establish himself in the centre of the park. Thanks to his relentless eagerness, he had a vital role to play in helping stabilise the team’s defence, whilst covering for those in front of him. Last season, he made 29 Bundesliga appearances for VfB.

The number 6’s contract, which was initially to expire in 2022, has now already been extended for a further year. "I want to continue developing sportingly. I am very happy that VfB have provided me with this opportunity and I am looking forward to continuing along the road we have taken together," said Santiago Ascacibar. 

VfB Sporting Director Michael Reschke: "In offering an early contract extension, we are honouring Santiago’s excellent sporting performances last season. During the summer break we had a number of inquiries about him from renowned Champions League clubs. We didn’t enter any negotiations though. Right now our interest is not in achieving high transfer fees. We want to build a strong team."

Nicolás Gonzalez – The New One

Just four weeks ago, Nicolás Gonzalez completed his move to VfB from Asociación Atlética Argentios Juniors. But even in that short space of time, the striker has already shown glimpses of the potential he possesses. Just like his two Argentine team mates, he has proven extremely determined in the pre-season friendly games thus far. Not even an open cut to his head could stop him against SD Eibar, following a clash with an opponent towards the end of the first-half. Receiving a few stitches during the break, the attacker was back on the pitch for the second period, flinging himself into the challenges and playing a vital role in securing the 2-1 win, having been brought down in the opposition area. The subsequent penalty was converted by Daniel Didavi. The Argentine was also on target with three goals in friendly action – scoring twice on his debut against FV Illertissen and netting an impressive overhead-kick against SV Sandhausen. Now the frontman is eager to prove his ability in the Bundesliga. "Every Argentine player dreams of playing in Europe. I am really eager for the season to begin. I am a team player and do what’s required for the good of the team," stated Nicolás Gonzalez.

The youngster has also had the assistance of Emiliano and Santiago in his search for accommodation, having lived with the latter for his first two weeks in Germany. "He’s a good flatmate. We went to eat together and drank Mate-Tea. I will remember that time fondly," remarked Santiago Ascacibar. "My decision to make the move to VfB was influenced by the fact that there were two Argentine players here, and in Pablo Maffeo, Gonzalo Castro and Mario Gomez, there are also other players who speak Spanish – as does head-coach Tayfun Korkut", noted Nicolás Gonzalez. The striker’s parents also joined him in Stuttgart. "My parents are delighted that the move to Stuttgart worked out. It’s important to me to have them here right now." On the pitch, he also has an experienced team mate on his side in Mario Gomez. "I benefit a great deal from his experience. Playing alongside Mario Gomez is a privilege. He helps me a great deal and I enjoy every minute I spend on the pitch together with him."

VfB Sporting Director Michael Reschke: "We are delighted to have completed the signing of Nicolas. He will surely bring us great joy."