Palermo’s new attacking Argentine Franco Vazquez has distanced himself away from comparisons with compatriot and former Rosanero hero Javier Pastore.
Vazquez joins Palermo for a fee of €4.5m Argentine side Belgrano, in a deal originally agreed upon in the summer. The youngster hails from the same town as former Palermo playmaker Pastore [pictured] and the two were even born within five months of each other.
Palermo’s new attacking Argentine Franco Vazquez has distanced himself away from comparisons with compatriot and former Rosanero hero Javier Pastore.
Vazquez joins Palermo for a fee of €4.5m Argentine side Belgrano, in a deal originally agreed upon in the summer. The youngster hails from the same town as former Palermo playmaker Pastore [pictured] and the two were even born within five months of each other.
More relevant than this, though, are the comparisons with Pastore in terms of playing style. Speaking at his unveiling, though, the 22-year-old looked to immediately set the record straight.
“I’d like to be taken into account because my name is Franco Vazquez, not because I was born in Cordoba like Pastore.
“I’m a playmaker, but I can play in an outside attacking role too. I have arrived just now, because I wanted to continue playing in my city for a little longer and contribute to the Argentine club’s fortunes.
“I’m thankful to Palermo for this opportunity.”
Despite the fondness for his hometown club, Vazquez is quick to point towards his growing allegiance towards his new Sicilian employers.
“I signed six months ago and since then I have followed Palermo, so I know the players and know the path Palermo have taken so far.
“I think the Palermo players are very good for my characteristics and I think I can insert myself into this squad very easily. But much will depend on the decisions of the Coach.
“The first few months will be settling in, I hope to play soon and in the meantime I will get to know the players and technical staff a lot better.
“Why do they call me El Mudo [The Mute] in Argentina? Because I am a quiet person, I don’t like to show off too much.”
Vazquez will wear the No 17 shirt at the Renzo Barbera.
“I chose it because it is one which I debuted in with Belgrano. In addition to Pastore, what player do I prefer? No doubt former Milan player Ricky Kaka.”