The impending departure of Álvaro Angulo from Independiente is creating ripples within the football community. While the official announcement is yet to be made, Ignacio Pussetto’s acceptance of an offer has set in motion a player exchange between Independiente and Pumas de la UNAM. This move comes as a blow to Julio Vaccari, who must now navigate the absence of a key player who proved instrumental during the previous season.
“Álvaro Angulo will be heading to Pumas de México,”
marking a significant shift for the talented forward. Despite initial ties with clubs such as Huracán, Watford, Udinese, and Sampdoria, it was his decision that ultimately sealed the deal with the Mexican club. Pumas not only offered full ownership of Nacho but also an additional $1.5 million for Álvaro Angulo’s complete rights (with half of this sum retained by Independiente due to their 50% stake).
Following his stellar performance, which notably included a historic 7-0 victory against Nacional Potosí in the Copa Sudamericana, the 28-year-old full-back returned to his homeland for a well-deserved break after proving himself as a standout player in Argentine football. Initially starting as Adrián Sporle’s understudy before Sporle moved on to Belgrano, Angulo’s impressive displays earned him a spot in the starting lineup. He featured in 24 matches and netted five goals, including crucial strikes against Racing and Boca Juniors that propelled Independiente towards success.
In showcasing his full potential within a short period, Angulo justified Vaccari’s faith when he was recruited during the summer transfer window and caught the attention of Pumas de la UNAM with his performances. Despite efforts by Independiente officials to negotiate an improved contract—an offer falling short of what Pumas had tabled—Angulo remained steadfast in his desire to explore new opportunities.
With both Angulo and Sporle no longer part of Independiente’s squad, attention turned toward finding suitable replacements for the left-back position. Two viable candidates emerged: Julián Aude, a promising 22-year-old talent from Lanús currently playing at Los Angeles Galaxy; and Jonathan Silva, a seasoned 31-year-old formerly with Boca Juniors who recently joined Malaysia’s Johor after departing Getafe.
Enter Cristian Borja—a name now circulating within Vaccari’s discussions—a 32-year-old Colombian left-back enjoying prominence under Néstor Lorenzo in Colombia’s national team while plying his trade at América de México. With an illustrious career spanning spells at Cortuluá Futbol Club to Sporting Lisbon via Santa Fe and Alanyaspor among others—Borja stands out as an experienced prospect capable of filling Álvaro Angulo’s boots effectively.
As Independiente navigates this period of transition post-Angulo era where strategic acquisitions pose crucial decisions ahead—the quest for stability continues amidst shifting dynamics on and off-field.
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