Leonel Vangioni Biography: Early Life, Career, and Achievements
Leonel Vangioni is a former Argentine footballer who played as a left-back for Newell’s Old Boys in the Argentine Primera Division. Vangioni was born on May 5, 1987, in Villa Constitucion, Argentina. He has represented the Argentina national team and played in some of the most prestigious clubs in South America, including River Plate, Monterrey, and AC Milan.
Vangioni began his career playing in the youth teams of Newell’s Old Boys. He made his professional debut in 2006 and quickly established himself as one of the most promising left-backs in Argentina. In 2011, he joined River Plate, where he won several titles, including the Copa Libertadores in 2015. After five successful years with River Plate, Vangioni moved to Mexico to play for Monterrey. In 2019, he joined AC Milan, where he played for one season before returning to Newell’s Old Boys.
Throughout his career, Vangioni was known for his attacking prowess, physicality, and versatility. He was equally comfortable playing as a left-back or left midfielder and could contribute to both defense and attack. His impressive performances with River Plate and Monterrey earned him a call-up to the Argentina national team, where he played in three matches.
Key Takeaways
- Leonel Vangioni is a former Argentine footballer who played as a left-back for Newell’s Old Boys in the Argentine Primera Division.
- Vangioni began his career playing in the youth teams of Newell’s Old Boys and quickly established himself as one of the most promising left-backs in Argentina.
- Throughout his career, Vangioni was known for his attacking prowess, physicality, and versatility.
Early Life
Leonel Jesús Vangioni Rangel was born on May 5, 1987, in Villa Constitución, Argentina. His grandfather, Davide Roca, originated from Riesi in the Province of Caltanissetta, Sicily. Vangioni grew up playing soccer on the streets of his hometown.
As a child, Vangioni idolized Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona. He was inspired by Maradona’s skill and passion for the game. Vangioni’s parents recognized his talent and enrolled him in a local soccer academy when he was just six years old.
Vangioni’s dedication to soccer paid off when he was scouted by the youth academy of Newell’s Old Boys, one of the most prestigious soccer clubs in Argentina. He joined the club’s youth team at the age of 10 and began his journey to becoming a professional soccer player.
Career Beginnings
Leonel Vangioni started his professional career with Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys in 2006. After two seasons with the club, he moved to Club Atlético River Plate, where he played for five years. During his time at River Plate, Vangioni established himself as one of the best left-backs in the Argentine Primera División.
Club Atlético River Plate
At River Plate, Vangioni won several titles, including the Argentine Primera División in 2014. He was a key player for the team and was known for his attacking capabilities, as well as his defensive skills. Vangioni was also a fan favorite at the club.
Monterrey
In 2016, Vangioni signed with Mexican club Monterrey. He quickly became a vital player for the team and helped them reach the final of the Apertura 2017 tournament. Vangioni’s performances at Monterrey earned him a call-up to the Argentina national team in 2018.
Vangioni’s time at Monterrey was successful, and he helped the team win the CONCACAF Champions League in 2019. After three seasons with the club, Vangioni left Monterrey in 2020 and returned to Argentina to play for Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys.
That’s all for the Career Beginnings section.
International Career
Leonel Vangioni has represented the Argentina national team on several occasions. He made his debut on May 21, 2014, in a friendly match against Trinidad and Tobago. He played as a left-back and helped his team to secure a 3-0 victory.
Vangioni was also part of the Argentina squad that participated in the 2015 Copa America held in Chile. He played in two matches, including the quarter-final clash against Colombia. Argentina reached the final of the tournament but lost to the hosts on penalties.
In addition, Vangioni was called up to the Argentina squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. He made his first appearance in the qualifiers on September 1, 2016, in a match against Uruguay. He played the full 90 minutes and helped his team to secure a 1-0 victory.
Overall, Vangioni has earned three caps for the Argentina national team. Although he did not make it to the final squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, he remains a highly regarded player in Argentina and continues to perform well at the club level.
Career Highlights
Honors and Awards
Leonel Vangioni has had a successful career, winning several honors and awards throughout his time in professional football. Some of his notable honors and awards include:
- Argentine Primera División: 2 (with River Plate)
- Copa Argentina: 1 (with River Plate)
- Copa Libertadores: 1 (with River Plate)
- Recopa Sudamericana: 1 (with River Plate)
- UEFA Europa League runner-up: 1 (with AC Milan)
Notable Matches
Vangioni has played in many notable matches throughout his career, including:
- Copa Libertadores Final 2015: Vangioni played a crucial role in River Plate’s victory over Mexican side Tigres UANL, scoring the opening goal in the second leg of the final.
- Copa Argentina Final 2016: Vangioni scored a stunning goal in the final against Rosario Central, helping River Plate secure their third Copa Argentina title.
- AC Milan vs. Inter Milan (Serie A, 2017): Vangioni made his debut for AC Milan in the Milan derby, helping his team secure a 2-2 draw against their city rivals.
Throughout his career, Vangioni has been known for his tenacity, physicality, and ability to score important goals. He has played for several top clubs in Argentina and Europe, and has been a key player for both club and country.
Playing Style
Leonel Vangioni is a versatile left-back who is known for his attacking prowess and technical ability. He is a strong and tenacious defender who is also comfortable on the ball and can contribute to his team’s attacking play.
Vangioni is an excellent crosser of the ball and can deliver dangerous balls into the box from the left flank. He is also a good dribbler and can take on defenders with ease. His ability to cut inside from the left and shoot with his right foot makes him a constant threat to opposition defenses.
Despite his attacking qualities, Vangioni is also a disciplined defender who is not afraid to put in a tackle. He is strong in the air and can win aerial duels against taller opponents. He is also a good reader of the game and can anticipate danger before it arises.
Overall, Vangioni’s playing style is a perfect fit for modern full-backs who are expected to contribute to both attack and defense. His technical ability, physicality, and tactical awareness make him a valuable asset to any team he plays for.
Personal Life
Leonel Vangioni was born on May 5, 1987, in Villa Constitución, Argentina. He is married and has two children. Vangioni is known to keep his personal life private and does not share much information about his family or personal interests publicly.
In his free time, Vangioni enjoys playing golf and spending time with his family. He is also known to be a big fan of Argentine tango music and has attended several concerts.
Vangioni is a philanthropist and has been involved in various charitable activities. He has donated money to several organizations that work towards improving the lives of underprivileged children and families in Argentina.
Overall, Vangioni is a private person who values his family and enjoys giving back to his community.
Legacy
Throughout his career, Leonel Vangioni has established himself as a reliable and versatile left-back, capable of contributing both defensively and offensively. He has been praised for his strong tackling, excellent work rate, and ability to deliver accurate crosses and set-pieces.
Vangioni’s most notable achievements include winning the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Sudamericana with River Plate, as well as the Supercopa MX and the CONCACAF Champions League with Monterrey. He has also been named to the Argentine Primera División Team of the Year on multiple occasions.
Despite his success, Vangioni’s legacy is still being written. He remains an active player, and his performances in the coming years will determine how he is ultimately remembered. However, his contributions to some of the most successful teams in South America and Mexico have already cemented his place in football history.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Leonel Vangioni born?
Leonel Vangioni was born on May 5, 1987, in Villa Constitución, Argentina.
What teams has Leonel Vangioni played for?
Leonel Vangioni has played for several teams throughout his career, including Newell’s Old Boys, River Plate, Monterrey, and Milan.
What is Leonel Vangioni’s playing position?
Leonel Vangioni is a left-back.
What is Leonel Vangioni’s height and weight?
Leonel Vangioni is 1.81 meters tall and weighs 73 kilograms.
What are some of Leonel Vangioni’s career highlights?
Leonel Vangioni has won several titles throughout his career, including the Argentine Primera División, the Copa Libertadores, and the CONCACAF Champions League.
Has Leonel Vangioni won any awards or honors?
Leonel Vangioni has been named to the Argentine Primera División Team of the Year twice and was also named to the CONCACAF Champions League Best XI in 2019.