Exequiel Palacios on…
…first impressions of the Werkself:
I had a great reception from the team and I'm very happy to be here – in spite of the language barrier. It was a bit much having to try remember all the names on the first day. But I really liked the communal meal and time in the rooms and it was even better in the training session. I knew before I came and it's a very strong team in terms of technique with exceptionally good players. The physical side is completely different from Argentina and I'll have to get used to that as quickly as possible.
…the decision to join Bayer 04:
It's a great chance for me to make the move to Europe. I could see something’s happening here and I also spoke to Javier Pinola and Lucas Alario about the club beforehand. The decision to leave my boyhood club wasn't easy at first – I've played for River Plate since I was five years old. But after long discussions with my family about the opportunity to move to such a big club as Bayer 04 Leverkusen I didn't need to think about it too long in the end. My partner, my parents and my brother will be with me in Germany.
…his role and targets at Bayer 04:
I see myself as a player who can make the final pass that leads to a goal. At the same time, I won't forget about working back. However, setting up the striker the ball is my primary target. I always give 100 per cent and fight to the end. I'm very versatile – on the right, left also as a number ten. For me it's always about helping the team. I hope we can win all our games and go through to the next rounds of the Europa League. I'm also aiming to show what I can do here so I can be at the next Copa América (South American championships; ed.). Unfortunately, I missed the last tournament due to injury.
…strengths and potential:
My biggest strength is being able to remain calm in difficult situations. Nevertheless, I know I've still got a lot to learn and have to work on playing the final ball quickly and accurately. With the players and team-mates around me that shouldn't be too difficult. Mentally I’m prepared for this new chapter and I will do all I can to help the team out straight away.
…the significance of the number 25 shirt:
I know Bernd Schneider wore that shirt and I looked into it beforehand. I will try to represent the club to the best of my ability. It's both an honour and a responsibility to wear the shirt with that number.
…possible consequences of his red cards in the last cup game as well as the last league game for River Plate:
Bayer 04 are already discussing it. The club is doing everything possible to make sure I'm able to play in the first Bundesliga game. In effect, I was shown the red cards for retaliation. Perhaps we South Americans have a different mentality… But I'm not a bad lad because of that.
…spectacular games and experiences:
For my young age, I've already played a lot of important, difficult and tough games. That includes some special ones such as winning the Copa final and other matches against Boca Juniors, the biggest rivals of River Plate. On top of that, there's the passion of the fans… It's incredible the way and how much Argentinian fans love football. But I can live with the emotions being somewhat less frenetic here in Europe.
…the significance of the tattoo on his calf:
The tattoo is of St Expeditus. My family and I are very religious. St Expeditus has very often helped us and that's why I very much believe in him.
Calling all Bayer 04 fans: The Werkself will play Pisa SC, newly promoted to Serie A, at the BayArena as part of the season opener. The clash with the club from Tuscany is on Tuesday, 5 August with the kick-off at 18:00 CET. Entrance to the stadium with a wide range of entertainment provided is possible from 15:00 CEST. Read on for information on ticket sales for the season opener.
Show moreBayer 04 Leverkusen have signed the 17-year-old forward Dustin Buck. The Germany youth international joins from the youth set-up at FC Augsburg. The technically gifted and fast attacker will strengthen the Werkself U19 squad.
Show moreSeveral Bayer 04 Legends, Bayer executives, club officials, current defender Arthur and, of course, dozens of enthusiastic children turned out on Saturday on the south side of Sao Paulo for the official opening of the Bayer 04 Football Academy, located at Club Bayer on the campus of Bayer Brazil.
Show moreA great night for 'Calle': Bayer 04 new signing Carlotta Wamser helped Germany to an opening win in the Women's Euro in Switzerland with an impressive performance. After coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 victory over Poland in Group C, the winger provided an assist and helped set up the second goal. The 21-year-old earned great praise from her coach and teammates in her first tournament match.
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