Former Uruguayan forward Sebastián Abreu, known as 'Loco', advocated for the signing of Otamendi by River Plate, outlining the reasons why the World Cup champion would be an asset for the Argentine club. The potential move of the defender, whose contract with Benfica is ending, to River Plate has been a recurring topic in various transfer windows, but without concrete developments. However, the rumor is gaining momentum again, and 'Loco' Abreu, in statements to the program La Banda de LPM, addressed the issue, explaining why the club should pursue his signing. For Sebastián Abreu, the importance of a player like Otamendi goes beyond footballing qualities. 'Regardless of the name, these characteristics of players, which are not many because generations and squads have changed, and the player of hierarchy and leader supports you in other aspects that are not visible, such as the sense of belonging, the jersey they are wearing, and knowing how to behave,' he stated. The Uruguayan highlighted Otamendi's role as a mentor for younger players and a crucial link for the coach. 'For a kid, having a guide in the locker room to understand how to become a professional and how to be at a club like River… For the coach, it's an ideal connection because the coach is not in the locker room every day,' he explained. 'Loco' Abreu also emphasized the mentality that the defender could instill in the group: 'This is where groups are forged with a sense of belonging, with mentality, knowing where you are, what you are looking for, good moments, bad moments, not looking over your shoulder when you win and not being the worst in the world when you lose.' The experience of being a World Cup champion is, for 'Loco' Abreu, a decisive factor. 'Having players who have lived that and have something as important as being a World Cup champion, of course, for a coach, having that presence is crucial. Beyond the footballing aspect, which is beyond discussion. He has that extra something that not all players with a career have, of being a leader. The leader fulfills a role that may not be seen on the field, it is much deeper. It is a task that you have to enjoy because it can be very draining,' he added. Finally, the former player highlighted the positive influence Otamendi could have on the development of young players, helping them deal with personal interests that may harm the collective. 'There, the leader has to mark the path for them to transcend sportingly, to improve professionally, and to enhance themselves so that in the future, they become a fully recognized footballer at River, with the aspiration to make the leap in quality of being a national team player and moving to Europe.'
River Plate Calls Former Uruguayan remains central to this story.
River Plate Calls Former Uruguayan remains central to this story.
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