La Academia rosarina

21/06/09

You don’t ever tend to look too far ahead when you are enjoying life, you simply let things flow safe in the knowledge tomorrow will be a good day. However when you’re stuck in a rut, the future is suddenly all that occupies ones thoughts and the next day seems to lack the promise it once had. That was the case for me.

I studied journalism at the National University of Rosario (UNR). I was a good student; I found the coursework no problem and generally coasted through. I proceeded to graduate with honours in 2008. Perhaps how comfortable I was in coasting through university was my downfall, as whilst I had simply been enjoying student life between 2004 and 2008 in a haze of nightclub smoke, dilated pupils, ginebra bols and cana it turns out many of my classmates had already begun to think to the future. They had put out feelers with local papers, radio stations, and TV studios in the hope of gaining experience and contacts for they day they left university.

I hadn’t.

In the time that has passed since graduating I have done bits and pieces of work, none of which have been paid, in the desperate hope of gaining contacts, recognition, and – ultimately – a job. The bottom line is I still work 5 days a week in the same restaurant I did when I was a student, and with no prospects of work on the horizon and with the new batch of 2009 UNR journalism students ready to further populate the crowded job pool that is how I now find myself in this rut.

The thing that attracted me to journalism was the prospect of becoming a sports reporter. I would read the interviews and match reports of La Capital and El Ciudadano and dream of being paid to talk to Jose Chamot as he strides off the Gigante de Arroyito turf having led (my local club) Rosario Central to a victory over Boca Juniors. Yes, that was the life for me: reporting on my beloved Los Canallas. I would regale the public with my match reports – their spine would tingle as I described Kily Gonzalez dancing away from the full back; they would feel the crunch as I described the last-ditch Horacio Carbonari tackle; they would well up with emotion as I described the beauty of the late Martin Cardetti winner; and by the last-minute Roberto Bonano save the reader would feel like they had finished a great novel.

That dream seems like a distant memory now, and not just because all of those Rosario greats have moved on. Somebody who was more diligent in their studies, and more forward-thinking in their mentality, and more fortunate in their contacts will be living the life I so dearly wanted.

Still, you can’t give up. And today I am doing my bi-monthly ritual of sending out my CV to absolutely every magazine, newspaper, radio station, press relations firm, press agency and football club I can possibly think of. Bits and pieces of unpaid work have come from this method in the past, but nothing that has particularly advanced my career. Here goes nothing:

To: pressoffice@newellsob.ar; info@rosariocentral.ar; pr@cordoba.ar; proffice@catirofederal.ar; sports@lacapital.ar; office@rosario12.ar; soccer@rosarionet.ar; sports@elciudadano.ar; editor@eleslabon.ar; studio@rosario3radio2.ar; sports@rosario3tv.ar

From: ********@hotmail.ar

Subject: Potential Job Opportunities

Attached File: JorgeGoncalvesCV.doc

Sir/Madam,

Good afternoon. My name is Jorge Goncalves, and I am writing to enquire about any vacancies currently available within the press department of this company. I am a fully trained journalist, and have good experience and training, and my goal is to work within football journalism and I feel I would be a great asset.

I realise that in the current climate jobs are at a premium, but if any positions are available for passionate, hard working sports journalists with plenty of training and experience in new media as well as print I would be very appreciative if you would consider me.

Such is my desire to break into the sports media I would also be delighted to come into the offices free of charge to help out and continue to learn the trade. Please keep my CV on file and consider me for any jobs that do become available.

Please find my CV attached.

Thank you for your time, and in advance for any potential opportunities that may be available.

Kind Regards,

Jorge Goncalves

Tel: 07549******

A lot of new faces coming back recently. Good to see you around, Ring Master, your 'Mexico Remembers' story was one of my favourites.

Looking forward to this read, RingMaster. We've not yet met so I'll simply say 'welcome' whereas the more senior among us have the added benefit of having read your work before. Best wishes for your work.

A lot of new faces coming back recently.

Is that not a bit of a paradox

I appreciate the sentiment very much Terk, cheers.

Thanks for the welcome 10-3, I hope you enjoy

01/07/09

Rosario is a seriously metropolitan city. To look back at the panoramic of the city from out on the majestic Parana River is to see a plethora of rather tall, modern-looking buildings clustered together to create an affect not completely different from looking at Manhattan from out on the water. Of course, industrially, this is on a smaller scale, but you can still find major offices of General Motors, Petrobras, ICI and Dow in the heart of Rosario, as well as the stunning Aqualina Tower – the tallest skyscraper in Rosario.

Like many of the most bustling, metropolitan cities in the World it is easy to become overwhelmed in Rosario. When things are not going well and you feel life lacks purpose it is very easy to feel completely engulfed by the shiny nothingness of the 3rd largest city in Argentina.

On the other hand, when things are going well and you are in the right frame of mind there is a true beauty to Rosario. The gorgeous Rosario-Victoria Bridge provides a stunning way to traverse the Parana River. On a summer day the Parana glistens in the sun and to take a trip out on one of the boats is a terrific way to get away from the city. Although there is a temptation to think all there is to Rosario is it’s metallic centre, you would be way wrong, it boasts some of the finest art and architectonic culture in all of Argentina, and when you do leave the central area of Rosario you find some truly tight knit communities and I can assure you some of my best nights have occurred when I have stumbled into a local bar in a part of town I have never been to before, to find more than accommodating hosts.

Today is the latter – a good day. The Parana is glistening, the city seems welcoming and my coffee is deep and flavoursome. This, most likely, is due to the e-mail I received yesterday morning from the press officer at Club Atletico Rosario Central, Juan Calvano. The jist of which was that I was to come down to the club offices for a ‘chat’ about what role I could potentially fill within the press department at Rosario Central.

Now, as I inhale the deep intoxicating aroma of the coffee the cynic in me tells me one thing: 'you are to be unpaid, easy labour'. Maybe so, and it would perhaps be more of an issue if it were for another club or magazine or whatever, but not with Rosario Central. The moment I step through the glass appointed entrance to the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito and onto the 20sq Ft welcoming mat, spectacularly emblazoned with the blue and yellow club crest that will be payment enough.

It is actually all I can do to not become completely giddy at the prospect of walking into the stadium, following in the footsteps of Rosario greats: Mario Kempes, Jose Chamot, Kily and Ezequiel Gonzalez. Hell, even young Cesar Delgado was surely always bound for a great career the moment he was brought to the Rosario academy.

*SMASH*

The young barista (probably paying his way through UNR) clumsily smashing a latte glass was actually just the shock I needed to snap me out of my fantastical reverie. As I look at my watch I can see its 08:17, 43 minutes until my meeting with Juan Calvano inside the cradle of my dreams – Estadio Gigante de Arroyito. Time to get going.

Is that not a bit of a paradox

I appreciate the sentiment very much Terk, cheers.

Yeah, that was meant to be old faces, I just put it down to not being able to type.

01/07/09

If you ask fans around the World their abiding memory of the 1978 World Cup suffice to say a fair amount will talk about that famous night in El Monumental. The fog of streamers cascading on to the pitch; the deafening roar of the Buenos Aires crowd screaming their team onto glory; the memorable match winning scoring exploits of El Matador Mario Kempes.

Thus, El Monumental, home of the famous River Plate has entered Argentinean – and indeed World – football folklore. But perhaps some room should be made for the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito. After the first round of the World Cup in 1978 Mario Kempes had still failed to get his name on the scoresheet, and Argentina had generally looked unimpressive in qualifying – requiring late goals to beat France and Hungary, and losing 1-0 to Italy. Argentina qualified 2nd in their group, 2 points behind Italy.

This failure to top their group proved a blessing in disguise for Argentina, as it meant they would play all their second round fixtures in the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito, Rosario. This re-invigorated Argentina, and more importantly the fanatic support for the former Rosario Central hero, Mario Kempes seemed to spur El Matador onto the greatness he was always destined for.

Between 1974 and 1976 Mario Kempes scored an astounding 86 goals in 107 games for Rosario Central, and despite only playing a few years at the club he is considered probably the greatest striker ever to wear the famous blue-and-yellow. Kempes then proceeded to play 4 wonderful years with Valencia, scoring 95 goals, firmly establishing himself as one of the finest natural strikers of that generation.

However, before the second round of 1978 he had still to score a World Cup goal. He was taken to World Cup of 1974 when only 20 years of age and failed to register a goal, and it was beginning to look like Groundhog Day in 78’. Then came 18th June 1978, as Mario Kempes bagged a brace in a 2-0 win versus Poland to send the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito crowd absolutely wild, and kick his – and Argentina’s – competition into gear. The same venue saw a 0-0 versus a somewhat workmanlike Brazil side in the battle of Rosario, before Rosario witnessed the absolute dismantling of Peru, with Mario Kempes grabbing another brace.

The final was obviously held in El Monumental, and another brace from Mario Kempes led the hosts to glory. It was a little before my time, but I was raised on tales of that glorious tournament, and tales of how important the City of Rosario, Estadio Gigante de Arroyito, and our influence on Mario Kempes was to Argentina winning the World Cup of 1978. So although the rest of the World may always associate El Monumental with that World Cup, I know it was truly Rosario Central’s Arroyito that was the most important venue in that famous success.

It is in the foyer of that football stadium I now stand.

01/07/09

“Senor Goncalves?” The pretty young brunette behind the desk in the foyer of the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito asked.

“Yes, that’s me” I croaked back, barely hiding my nerves regarding my epic surroundings.

Luckily she seemed to find my nerves endearing, and smiled as she walked round from behind the desk.

“If you would like to follow me Jorge”, she invited “I’ll take you to Senor Calvano’s office.”

I happily followed the receptionists perfect form through two massive mahogany doors with crystal glass panels – panel which read “La Academia rosarina”, loosely translated as “The Academy of Rosario”, a proud nod to the clubs famous youth system which prides itself on seeing many players rise through the ranks and pull on the famous jersey for the first team.

The young receptionist was taking it upon herself to give me a guided tour of the corridor as we walked: “………and there you will see a picture of Jose Chamot, this was taken versus Boca Juniors at La Bombonera. It was a famous 2-0 victory for Rosario.....Ah now here you can see an action picture of Kily Gonzalez, he went on to……”

It was very accommodating of her, but there was no need for the commentary. I could name the players, scenarios, and stadiums of every picture that adorns the corridors of the Arroyito. As well as the gorgeous framed pictures, the floor is a fine marble creation and there are several famous shirts including a Santos shirt worn by a certain Pele. It was a glorious walk, and a really pleasant assault on the senses for a Rosario fan like myself – but finally we were at our destination.

“Senor Calvano’s office, I will come back at accompany you back when your meeting has reached a conclusion”, my guide said efficiently.

“Thank you Ms….?”, I had to enquire.

“Call me Eva”, she smiled.

With that she rapped on Juan Calvano’s office door.

“COME IN!”, a voice boomed from inside.

The warm feeling Eva no doubt instils in all the boys suddenly dissipated when I heard the rocky roar from within the office. I felt a little like a Gladiator about to enter the arena to face a particularly peckish lion.

“On you go”, Eva encouraged, giving me a supportive rub on the shoulder.

Suddenly I felt a little ashamed, relying on a complete stranger for moral support ahead of a perfectly informal meeting. So I told myself to keep it together, take a deep breath, and impress.

As I entered the office the door closed behind me, and all of a sudden I was on my own with the manager of the press department at Club Atletico Rosario Central.

Juan Calvano is a short, heavy-set man. Perhaps in his mid-50’s with thinning hair and a weathered face, although the years of running the press department at a club like Rosario Central have perhaps added a couple of years. It is also a fair assumption to say nicotine has added a few years onto him too, judging by the cigarette haze in Senor Calvano’s office he is quite the chain-smoker.

“Jorge Goncalves?”, Senor Calvano vetured, eyeing up my CV as he spoke.

“Yes, Senor Calvano. And may I say it’s an honour to be here”, I gushed. In retrospect I was a little guilty of sycophancy.

“Ah, do I hear the sound of a giddy Rosario boy in your voice?”, Senor Calvano asked, his voice and demeanour softening slightly.

“Yes Senor. I have supported Rosario Central all my life, and when I trained to be a journalist it was always the thought of reporting on this club that drove me on. So to sit here is a great moment for me. And I have no doubt any jobs you see as menial or boring would be a dream to me.”

“You are lucky….”, Juan Calvano let his words hang in the smoky air, obviously enjoying the fact I had no idea what the hell he meant, “….I say that because previously there have been no opportunities at this club. I have provided the majority of copy with some help from those within the club for the match programme and website, whereas our webmaster - Sebastian Tries - puts things together remotely from his home in Rafaela. Now things have changed, and I have some ideas for you Jorge.”

I nodded knowingly and remained stony faced as my intestines performed riverdance inside my body.

Juan Calvano continued: “As you may be aware, we have recently appointed a new manager”, Senor Calvano was smiling, as he knew fine well I would know all about the pre-season managerial change at Rosario Central.

I ventured to speak: “Yes, of course, David Bisconti. Played over 150 games for us – sorry, for Rosario Central. Got a few caps for Argentina too if I recall correctly.”

“You do”, Calvano answered, before taking a draw on a fresh cigarette. “He was Horacio Usandizaga's [Rosario Central Chairman] first choice for manager when Ariel Cuffaro-Russo left, and when the two men had a conversation about the future of the club Senor Bisconti had some very interesting ideas about things ranging from the youth team to press relations. Senor Usandizaga has taken many of these ideas on board, one of which ordains that I take more of an Executive role. Rather than spending my time providing copy and interviews and other more journalism related roles, I am to spend my time liaising with other journalists and looking to create positive publicity for our football club. I will of course still play a part in publications, but more as an editor, rather than a journalist.”

Calvano took another draw of his cigarette. Granted, news of Senor Calvano’s promotion was fascinating, but I couldn’t help but fidget my fingers as I became impatient to learn where I come into all this.

“Now. Where do you come into this?” I began to worry Juan Calvano could read my thoughts. “I need a young, enthusiastic journalist to provide consistent quality copy; I need website content daily, sent to Sebastian Tries via e-mail. I need regular match programme content. I need someone to carry out internal interviews for publication and I need someone to help liaise with journalists on press conference days.”

I could barely hide my excitement. Senor Calvano’s tone suggested that this would be a hellish job, and he was almost apologetic while listing my potential tasks, but to me this was the job I was born to do.

“Most of all” Calvano continued, “I need a cheap option. I have been given a mandate to reform this department, and I need another body if I am to fulfil my executive tasks, but I have been given barely any more money. So, I will be asking you to perform the role of an important journalist, but you will basically be on the same money as a shop worker.” Once again Juan Calvano let his words hang in the air.

I tried to look contemplative, as if there was a chance I might say no. You know, play hard to get. It doesn’t work with women and it doesn’t work with gruff chain-smoking press officers either, and Calvano interrupted the silence.

“Listen Jorge: You don’t have great experience. You have produced very little published copy since you left UNR. In all honesty there is no reason you should be being offered this opportunity. However I have looked over some of your archived reports for the UNR paper and you can write sports reports, that much is apparent. I can also tell by your demeanour today that you are a Rosario Central fanatic. So I have decided to take a risk on you, by assuming your loyalty, passion, and sports writing will make up for the lack of experience.”

I got the feeling that Senor Calvano had just cut to the chase. Everything that went before was merely foreplay. The deal was now on the table.

“Senor Calvano”, I gulped, “money is no object. I would pay you for the opportunity you are offering me!” I hoped he realised I was joking, as a man facing budget cuts may think that was a great idea. “I think I can do a really good job in every aspect you have spoken about, and I massively appreciate you taking a chance on me.”

Sycophancy was kicking in again, but this is a big moment for me.

“OK Jorge. You start next week. Be in my office at 09:00 Monday morning and we’ll discuss easing you in.” It was apparent Juan Calvano’s gruff exterior was merely the result of 30 years at the coalface of journalism; he was actually fairly amiable, like a pet rottwieler.

“Eva”, Juan Calvano spoke into his intercom, “Senor Goncalves is ready.”

After a couple of minutes of friendly small talk Eva rapped on the door, before entering when prompted.

Calvano drank in the sight of the gorgeous receptionist, resplendent in her figure-hugging grey suit-jacket, before speaking: “Eva, Senor Goncalves will be joining the small press team here at Rosario Central. So could you escort him to payroll before he leaves.”

“Of course Senor Calvano,”, Eva replied, walking me towards the door. “Welcome aboard Jorge” Eva winked.

06/07/09

I have never been someone comfortable wearing a suit. My awkward posture when wearing one kind of makes me look like a very realistic mannequin. Indeed, when I arrived for my graduation my former media law lecturer ventured to tell me: “you must be looking for the courtroom Jorge. Take the number 21 across town you can’t miss it. Good luck for your trial.” Oh yes, everyone had a good laugh.

Today my suit [my only suit, although I will buy another couple, since I’ll be wearing one most days now] seems to fit more comfortably. It feels natural, and appropriate. I have always been of the belief nobody should enter the main entrance of the Arroyito without being dressed respectfully. It was a moral code instilled into the great Championships winning side of Angel Julio Zof and in modern football it is a discipline that many clubs would benefit from.

I sit - comfortable in my suit – across from Juan Calvano. Although I met him in his smoky office this morning, he decided we should conduct our first professional meeting in more informal surroundings: The Rosario Central cafeteria. I was delighted as the cafeteria is non-smoking. We are just about ready to get down to business, admittedly slightly behind schedule as I have spent the last 10 minutes – I’m ashamed to say – shooting glances around the hall and saying: “Wow, is that Jonatan Gomez/Paul Ambrosi/Emilio Zelaya?!”.

“Jorge, stop being so damn star struck. These men are your colleagues now – fellow employees of Club Atletico Rosario Central - so you can’t be nervous around them. I need to know you can do your job when I ask you to interview these men.” Senor Calvano rapped sternly.

“I’m sorry. First day nerves.” I admitted.

“And besides”, Senor Calvano continued, “The players are only here for their pre-season meeting. Most mornings they will be over at the training ground. So you can do your work without turning into a giddy schoolgirl!”

Suitably chastened, I laughed and sipped my morning cappuccino.

“Lets start with the basics,” Senor Calvano began, before cramming a spoonful of porridge so thick it almost required a knife to get to it into his mouth. “This week we will ease you in gently with some of the more mundane tasks. I will require you to write up a squad profile for the website, then later on in the week we will both be overseeing Senor Bisconti’s first press conference, this will require plenty of networking with the hacks in order to create a positive spin early this season – you will also type up a generic press release for the journalists as the arrive.”

“That all sounds fine. How am I to get the copy online when it’s finished?” I ventured.

“Send all your finished work to Sebastian Tries. You will very rarely see Seba, but he is always available remotely, and ready to upload work onto the website. He is a great worker and designer, but not much of a copy producer. Send your stuff over to him at s.tries@rosariocentral.ar.”

I quickly jotted down the address.

“I will expect you do give him a lot of work: Latest news, match reports, interviews, etc. Any other work, for example press releases and copy for the match programme you send to me at j.calvano@rosariocentral.ar and I’ll deal with it.”

Another address to jot down.

“So this week you want a squad profile sent over to Sebastian for the website, and a press release ahead of Senor Bisconti’s press conference sent over to you?” I clarified.

“That’s right Jorge,” Senor Calvano spluttered, having clearly never been told not to talk with his mouth full, “I will look to meet you at least once a week to discuss your workload and what I want from you. As tasks like press releases, interviews, and match reports become second nature to you we will discuss potential features to liven up the match programme and website, but for now you just settle in and start working. And before you go and think its all ‘work, work, work’ you can go and watch the closed-doors game between the first team and the reserves if you like tomorrow”

Despite being a busy man, and having a natural rough-around-the-edges character Juan Calvano was making a real effort to be disarming, and I appreciated it. My first day nerves were quickly dissipating.

“Absolutely. That all sounds great” I smiled.

“Oh yes,” Senor Calvano said, obviously remembering something, “Also, after the press conference I want you to interview Senor Bisconti for immediate audio upload onto the website. The fans are excited by the appointment and will want to hear from the manager, plus we want more new-media content on the website.”

The casual manner of Juan Calvano telling me this was unusual. Perhaps, having seen how star struck I was having seen members of the first team squad, he was trying to be disarming again by making an interview with David Bisconti sound as mundane as a trip to the supermarket. I decided to hide my excitement/terror.

“No problem,” I croaked.

I clearly didn’t do a good job of hiding my emotions from Senor Calvano, as he smiled: “You’ll do fine son.” Juan Calvano patted me on the back before knocking back his – presumably ice cold now – espresso. “Now get to work, slacker.” He grinned, before leaving the cafeteria, and leaving me immersed in my own thoughts.

06/07/09

I finished my coffee and proceeded to wander back to my ‘office’ to get some work done. This morning before our meeting in the cafeteria Juan Calvano had shown me where I would be working, in truth it was an airing cupboard with a Mac in it, but to me it may as well have been a penthouse suite overlooking the Parana River – after all, it was my own office in the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito.

My own office in the Arroyito, I repeated to myself, smiling as I sat down and powered up the Mac. Today would be an easy enough day; all I really had to do was complete a squad profile and send it to Sebastian Tries for the website. Although it was a simple task I wanted to do a good job, get a little bit of history in to the profiles, a little bit about the players key strengths. You know, try and take the humble squad profile to a level above ‘Name / Age / Position = Done’.

“Hola new guy”, came a playful voice from my doorway (I should point out at this point my door has no lock, and hangs on the hinges in such a way that it swings open, so I effectively have an open plan workspace).

I slowly drew my head up from my Mac: Black leather boots, tight black jeans framing perfect slim legs, gorgeous waist, white vest top showing off just enough cleavage to stay professional yet remain groin-achingly sexy, stunning Latino looks and long flowing brown hair. Eva.

Mi dios.

“Morning Eva”, I ventured, regaining my composure. Being around some of your football idols is one thing, but nothing throws a man off quite like the unexpected sight of a stunning woman.

“I just wanted to check you were settling in alright”, she said, flashing a beautiful smile.

“Oh yes, yes”, I slightly over-emphasised, “I had a chat with Senor Calvano this morning and I feel pretty comfortable now – just a case of starting work I guess.”

“Well, I’m at reception if you need anything at all.” With that she left, turning to reveal buttocks so perfect in those jeans they could have been sculpted by God himself.

I’ll not lie; it took me a little while to get the image of Eva out my head, and to finally start doing some work. The flashing cursor on a blank screen is the journalists’ greatest enemy – our lecturer in first year used to tell us to just write, write anything to get started. He was right enough, from the moment I typed ‘Club Atletico Rosario Central Squad 2009/10’ I developed some momentum, and before long I had my first copy as press officer here to send to Sebastian Tries:

CLUB ATLETICO ROSARIO CENTRAL SQUAD 2009/10

Goalkeepers

Jorge Broun, Aged 23 (Arg): Having played over 30 times last season Jorge Broun is firmly established as number 1 at Rosario Central. Jorge has played his whole career at Central, and the 6’3 stopper enjoys a growing reputation in Argentina due to his excellent aerial presence and balance.

Hernan Galindez, Aged 22 (Arg): Hernan is unfortunate in the sense that not only does he have a fine goalkeeper ahead of him, but that goalkeeper is only a year older than him. Despite that the coaches have high hopes for Hernan, and with the agility of a cat he is expected to go far.

Facundo Lupardo, Aged 20 (Arg): We are lucky at Rosario Central that we call upon three quality goalkeepers. Facundo is considered a great prospect, but will probably be beaten to a place on the bench by Hernan Galindez. Nevertheless he is a good young keeper and boasts excellent handling and reflexes.

Defenders

Nahuel Valentini, Aged 20 (Arg) D R/C: At just 20 years old Nahuel is considered one of the finest young talents on the books at Los Canallas. Comfortable playing as a tough centre-back or marauding down the right as a full back, his versatility as well as his talent will surely make him a big player this season. Nahuel played 8 games last season as a fresh faced teenager, and there is a general feeling this could be a season for him to step up.

Diego Braghieri, Aged 22 (Arg) D L/C: You only need to read the papers to get the buzz about Diego. According to some rather scurrilous reporting Paraguayan giants Cerro Porteno are ready to make a bid. Naturally it will be in Centrals best interest to fend that off because Diego is a fine defender, great in the tackle, good in te air, and nippy over the yards. All-in-all a terrific modern defender.

Guillermo Burdisso, Aged 20 (Arg) D C: Brother of Serie A star Nicolas, this could be the season Guillermo earns a name in football in his own right. Guillermo has already developed something of a reputation as a goal scoring centre-back even at this early stage in his career after 2 goals (including a debut strike) in his 13 appearances last season.

Ramiro Fassi, Aged 27 (Arg) D C: With no other centre-back option over the age of 22 Ramiro is the elder statesman at the heart of the Rosario Central defence at 27. It isn’t only experience Ramiro brings to the table, he is also a very hard working centre back who can be relied on to concentrate and do the basics well.

Diego Chitzoff, Aged 29 (Arg) D/WB R: Diego became something of a controversial figure this summer, arriving at Central from our Santa Fe rivals Colon – a move which didn’t actually endear him to either sets of fans, but we must get behind him now when he pulls on the yellow-and-blue. We will be rewarded with committed performances from a hard working, honest full back that may be no Dani Alves, but sure as hell never shirks a challenge.

Alexis Danelon, Aged 23 (Arg) D/WB/M R: Versatility is always a virtue in the modern game, and Alexis Danelon is blessed with the gift of being proficient wherever you play him on the right flank. At 23 he certainly possesses all the work rate and stamina that youth affords, but will be looking to improve his consistency as he played 25 games last season and had as many poor games as good games.

Midfielders

Jesus Mendez, Aged 24 (Arg) DM/M R/C: Jesus Mendez will start this season as captain and will provide work rate, stamina and aggression in the midfield. Last season was his first at the club but he firmly established himself as a regular, before being handed the armband in the latter stages of the Clausura stage. With past clubs including River Plate, Olimpo and St Gallen Jesus had been around a bit for a 24 year old and will surely prove an invaluable asset this season.

Paul Ambrosi, Aged 28 (Ecu: 25 Caps/0 Goals) DM/M C: Paul was the major Rosario Central signing this summer, and a real bargain at under £500,000. This season will be Paul’s first outside Ecuador, but presuming he settles in there is no reason he cannot be a massive player at the club. In his 9 years at LDU de Quito he played 328 games and drove the club to several championships and an incredible Copa Libertadores crown. He has also played in the World Cup and possesses 25 caps for the Ecuadorian national team.

Martin Astudillo, Aged 31 (Arg) DM/M C: Martin is another new signing in the midfield, and this season returns home to Argentina after 10 years in Spain. Astudillo became a fixture in the surprisingly successful Alaves side, and started the famous 2001 UEFA Cup Final against Liverpool. Martin spent 10 years at Alaves, only leaving for a brief loan spell at Osasuna, but he has decided to come home and we are lucky enough to have him. Martin brings great experience, good passing and vision and an eye for goal back with him from Europe.

Gervasio Nunez, Aged 21 (Arg) M L: Gervasio’s greatest attribute is an unwavering willingness to get up and down the flank. As well as left midfield Gervasio is proficient at left wingback and left back, so his versatility could prove exceedingly important this season. He played 15 games last season and will be looking to break into the team regularly this season.

Jonatan Gomez, Aged 19 (Arg) AM R/C: Outrageously talented 19 year old. Jonatan was given the number 10 jersey this season, a massive honour in Argentine football, and he will be looking to prove that was a wise decision by producing some magical performances from midfield and adding to his 13 appearances from last season. The young man will probably not start every game, but his finishing, flair, and pace will make him a wonderful option as an impact player and from that point he can try and become a regular starter.

Ramon Ocampo, Aged 23 (Arg) AM R/C, On loan from Velez Sarzfield: Ramon Ocampo is a fine young midfielder who will push hard for a starting berth this season. His dribbling is the most eye-catching thing about the player and if he is in the mood he has the ability to dance around the sturdiest defence. There are questions about his consistency, and at 5’4 he can be bullied out of the game at times – of course there are negatives, otherwise he would not have been sent here on loan, but he is undoubtedly a major talent.

Forwards

Gonzalo Choy, Aged 27 (Uru) AM L / SC: At 6’3 and a grain of sand above 11 stones Gonzalo Choy could be described as a beanpole striker, but his occasionally lumbering gait shouldn’t hide the fact he is a very talented footballer. He is adept on the left wing where his stamina and crossing ability come to play, and he is a great option up front where his aerial ability and capabilities at holding the ball up come to the fore. It is worth pointing out he is far from a natural finisher though. It is a very public secret Gonzalo’s contract is expiring in under 6 months, so with Deportivo Huesca supposedly sniffing around it will be one of David Bisconti’s first job to get Gonzalo Choy’s future sorted.

Andres Franzoia, Aged 23 (Arg) AM/F C: Andres is an exceptionally talented forward player, but sometimes finds it difficult to carve out a niche for himself in the team as he is not a natural striker, but certainly not willing to do the graft of a midfielder. This means he probably needs the role of second striker where he can link midfield to striker, create chances, and chip in a few goals. The former Boca man will need to score more than the one goal he scored last season to justify the tactical shoehorning his style requires.

Milton Caraglio, Aged 20 (Arg) SC: Simply one of the most talented young strikers in Argentina. The tragedy is we won’t witness him lighting up the Arroyito for at least 4 months as he recovers from damaged cruciate ligaments. Milton has been a member of the first team squad since he was 16, and scored 7 goals from 21 matches last term, when he return he will bring with him strength, determination, aggression, fantastic aerial ability, and an eye for goal – until then Rosario Central will surely miss the young star.

Gonzalo Castillejos, Aged 23 (Arg) SC: Gonzalo has been in the Rosario Central first team after graduating La Academia since 2007 yet has only made two appearances, he will be hoping this season is the one where he can finally make the breakthrough. He certainly possesses decent pace and his style displays a fair bit of flair, but he will need to prove he has the lethal touch in front of goal when he gets a chance.

Emilio Zelaya, Aged 21 (Arg) SC: Emilio broke into the team in 2007 at just 19 and has never really looked back, last season he played 35 matches. His goal haul of 6 from those 35 matches has left question marks over whether he has the goal touch of a top striker and he will look to become more prolific this season. What he undoubtedly brings to the party is exemplary physical ability allied with good aerial prowess in the box, and people tend to forget he is so young because he has been a first team regular for three years but he has time on his side to become a more regular goal scorer.

I must admit, having spent the day researching and typing up the current squad, the thing that strikes me is just how young and inexperienced it is. Pretty much the entire squad is under 25 years old, which is incredible for a Primera Division club. I can only assume David Bisconti will try to bring in a little more experience before the start of the season, because players like Juan Roman Riquelme, Juan Sebastion Veron and Ariel Ortega will have a field day taking a team full of youngster well and truly back to school.

I wandered past reception on my way out, hoping Eva was still there. She wasn’t, Javi was the receptionist on duty at night. Javi’s a nice guy and not a bad looking guy but didn’t quite give off the same sexual magnetism to me – thankfully.

“Bye Javi”, I chirped.

“See you tomorrow Jorge.”

Good Start

May i ask what leagues you are running?

Good Start

May i ask what leagues you are running?

Not at my own computer at the moment, but off the top of my head: Argentna (all divisions), Brazil (down to second division), Chilean primera, Uruguay primera, Spain (down to second), Italy (down to second), England (Down to CC2), Scotland (to third), France (premier), Germany (Premier), Portugal premier.

There may be a couple of others, but that's about it: enough for a good career game which will hopefully spawn a decent story.

Thanks for the kind words too bobatwal

07/07/09

As the next day sprung to life I decided I would take Juan Calvano up on his offer to go and watch the Central 1st team versus the reserves. For a reason I will never quite fathom the game was played at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito, I would have assumed it would be more of an encounter for the training ground, but who am I to argue.

The positive about the games location was that from my office I simply had to walk down the corridor, through a set of swing doors, downstairs and I was in the match day complex. It’s then a simple case of walking down the tunnel [something of a dream I might add].

As I strode down the tunnel I saw the teams were already out, 10 minutes ahead of schedule, I guess for matches like this technicalities aren’t overly important. I hopped into the stand and took a seat with a decent vantage point – needless to say I had my choice of seats in this behind close doors match. At this point I will clarify something (which will become apparent): I am a bit of an anorak. So, I whipped out my pen and notepad and proceeded to jot down the players on the pitch, and set about taking some notes, I don’t think we’ll be publishing a match report, but it’s nice to have notes on matches, players, and goals for future reference – what did I tell you: anorak.

Rosario Central vs. Rosario Central Reserves, Estadio Gigante de Arroyito. Friendly. Att: 0

Rosario Central (4-1-3-2) Broun; Braghieri, Fassi, Burdisso, Danelon; Ambrosi; Astudillo, Ocampo, Mendez ©; Choy, Franzoia

Rosario Central Res (4-4-2) Nicosia; Garcia, Capella, Boggino, Espinoza; Moya, Goicoechea, Palialunga, Zarate; Aguero, Guerrieri

The first thing I noted down from the first 5 minutes of this game was that the reserves actually had a decent bit of quality. I was told strictly to only do profiles for 1st team players, but I got the feeling that meant I left out some decent players. Young Lucas Goicoechea is only 16 years old and had a couple of great touches early on, right back Abel Espinoza probably only finds himself in the reserves because we have decent right back options already, and word around the club is that the only reason left winger Lucas Moya is in the reserves is because he is an old fashioned winger and David Bisconti doesn’t play a formation which lends itself to wingers.

So there was a fair amount of quality in the reserves for Bisconti’s preliminary top team to test itself against. The senior side – despite some nice touches by the reserves – did make all the running early on. A Roman Ocampo shot had to be perried away after some nice build up play on the right involving Andres Franzoia. This was followed with Gonzalo Choy thrashing the ball into the side of the net after being played through by Paul Ambrosi.

I had to chuckle as Jesus Mendez was booked for a rash challenge. Mendez is the epitome of the aggressive central midfielder and is probably the only man who could manage to get booked in a glorified training session.

The breakthrough came on 20 minutes and this time Jesus Mendez was involved in a positive way. He burst past Santiago Garcia to go free down the right flank, and with time to measure his cross he found Martin Astudillo timing his run to absolute perfection to plant a header past 19 year old Federico Nicosia. You don’t like to place blame but Emilliano Cappella found himself sucked under the ball and completely misjudged the flight of it – you sense that will do the 24 year old centre backs chances of a first team berth no good.

Straight after the goal Lucas Moya took it upon himself to have a solo dribble and shot at Jorge Broun. It was a decent enough effort, but you got the feeling it was as much to show how much better he felt he was than the rest of the reserves.

The Lucas Moya effort was a false dawn, and the seniors began to completely dominate. Efforts from Astudillo, Choy and Ocampo rained in and only a combination of wasteful finishing and good goalkeeping by Nicosia kept the score at 1-0 at half time.

Half time substitutions: Galindez for Broun…Chitzoff for Danelon….Valentini for Burdisso….Gomez for Ocampo….Zelaya for Franzoia….Castillejos for Choy.

It’s a cliché, but mass substitutions always initially disrupt the play, and this game was no different. The first incident of note was when Chitzoff decided to go careering through Lucas Moya and was booked within 5 minutes of his Central bow. Perhaps a man simply too keen to impress those who would rather him not be here.

On the hour mark the game lit up. Lucas Moya attempted to do too much out on the left wing and allowed Chitzoff to nip it away from him, from that point onwards the counter attach was breathtaking. Chitzoff to Mendez, Mendez the swept a 40 yard pass across to Astudillo, Astudillo cushioned the ball beautifully to Gomez who was bursting from midfield, as Gomez approached the edge of the box he was aggressively closed down but had the awareness to funnel the ball to Paul Ambrosi who absolutely battered a shot into the top corner past the helpless Nicosia. A moment of gleaming quality in what was turning into a real pre-season affair.

80th minute substitution: Nunez for Braghieri

There were more chances to be had. Gomez, who made a difference since coming on at half time, had a curling effort sail just wide of the post, and Emilio Zelaya was flagged offside when he stroked home an Ambrosi through-ball, but generally all the players and staff seemed to be happy to let the game peter out.

Rosario Central (Astudillo 22’, Ambrosi 60) 2 – 0 Rosario Central Reserves

MoM: Martin Astudillo 8.2

I looked down on my notes on the match and smiled at my own insanity. It’s not as if anyone will ever read them, but what the hell – it was my first ever match report as a press officer. I put my notepad back in my pocket and stood up, stretching my legs in the process.

I thought about going down and introducing myself to David Bisconti, after all I would be interviewing him after his press conference tomorrow. I though better of it, he was chatting to Reserve manager Jose Chamot and if two Rosario Central greats like that were to tell me to get lost my self esteem would never recover! I slinked out of the stand and back up the tunnel towards my office. I had work to do anyway. Granted, it was mind-numbing work, press releases are boring stuff, but I had to get one ready for tomorrow’s press conference.

07/07/09

I went back to the office via the cafeteria as the Rosario – Rosario Res game had taken the clock pretty much up to lunch time. One thing we learned in University was that press releases are the scourge of the modern journalist, they are soul-sapping to write, but if you are a press officer you will spend half your life punching them out. Still, who was I to complain, I would have killed for this job a week ago, and much like the squad profile I wrote yesterday I decided I may as well try and do a good job and pack in as much information as possible.

Once I had finished this would have to be sent to Juan Calvano for proofing, before being printed out en masse and given to every journalist as they enter the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito tomorrow as an initial reference point to our managerial appointment:

For Immediate Release:

David Bisconti is the new Club Atletico Rosario Central manager

Profile

Name: David Bisconti

Born: Sep 22, 1968 (40 years old)

International honours: 12 caps/1 goal

Previous clubs: Rosario Central, Yokohama Marinos, Universidad Catolica, CD Badajoz, Gimnasia y Esgrima de Jujuy, Avispa Fukuoka, Sagan Tosu

Ladies and gentlemen of the press, welcome to the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito.

Today’s press conference has been called in order to confirm that former Argentina international and Rosario Central forward David Bisconti has been appointed manager of Club Atletico Rosario Central on an initial 12 month contract, with the option of further extension dependent upon the success of this coming season.

David Bisconti was a real favourite in his time with Rosario Central, playing over 150 times for the club. His career also encapsulated spells in Japan, Spain and Chile, winning the 1997 Apertura top scorer with CD Universidad Catolica. He also attained 12 caps for the national side, scoring one goal in the process.

Rosario Central represents Senor Bisconti’s first job in football management, but the club has absolutely no doubt that his experience of the game as well as his experience of this football club will stand him in great stead to carry Central to many successes in the future.

Senor Bisconti has retained all the members of the backroom staff, including assistant managers Jose Chamot and Ruben da Silva; he has also signed hugely experienced coach Ricardo Bochini as tactical coach.

After a short initial statement Senor Bisconti will be available for a limited amount of questions.

08/07/09

Today was a massive day in my life. It was one that started off pretty much entirely dominated by nerves – after all, just a few days ago I was a wannabe journalist working in a restaurant and desperately searching for a break, so a day which entailed networking with some of the most important journalists in Argentina, followed by a one-on-one interview with the manager of Rosario Central who just happens to be a former Argentina international is bound to stir up some butterflies.

Those butterflies immediately calmed a little when I got to the Omar Palma hall (a large room on the second floor of the stadium where large press conferences and receptions etc are held, named after the Rosario Central midfielder who finished top scorer when we won the Campionato in 1988) and saw that re-enforcements had been drafted. I had this horrible image of me being left to organise a carrel of journalists on my own.

“10:00 on the nose, you are efficient”, came the familiar voice of Juan Calvano. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t happy to see him here. I have no doubt I will be great at this job in time, but this is my first major press conference and the world wise Senor Calvano is the man when it come to this type of occasion.

“I see you called in the cavalry”, I said, motioning towards the four men all wearing black suits and club ties.

“We have a fair few ‘jacks of all trades’ at this club. Such is the nature of the beast when you are obliged to tighten your belts, you know.” Senor Calvano explained. I simply nodded in an understanding fashion. My mind was on the arrival of the press, and of David Bisconti.

“Over there”, Senor Calvano continued, “is Manuel. He usually works in marketing but helps on occasions like this, and also will help out with features for the match programme. You didn’t think I expected you to do a match programme every second week on your own did you?!” Calvano laughed.

The truth is I hadn’t actually thought about it. I had been so wrapped up in the online content, and on today, that I hadn’t considered the match programmes written content. It’s good to know I’ve an extra pair of hands. I nodded amiably at Manuel.

“Jonas”, Calvano said, pointing at a lanky man with long-ish straight dark hair who was adjusting the microphones on the table where David Bisconti and Horacio Uzandizaga would sit, “is a PA to our director of finances, but has a great manner, so I thought he would be useful.” Calvano said nonchalantly.

Again, I nodded amiably at Jonas.

Calvano moved quickly on: “He,” pointing at a man slightly younger, and even more nervous looking than me, fidgeting with his tie, “is Angel – well his name is actually Angelo, but look at that cherub face! – he would have been a couple of years under you at university, he is a 3rd year NRU journalism student here for work experience. He will rarely be at the club but will help out on occasions like this, and do match reports for U21’s etc, so you don’t need to bother with that.” Calvano smiled the smile of a man happy at having someone working for nothing.

I smiled curtly at Angel, secretly envious of his forward thinking at getting work experience here. If only I had thought of doing that, maybe the last year wouldn’t have been such a waste.

“And finally,” Calvano announced as if about to impart a vital truth upon me, “the chap fidgeting with his laptop over there is Sebastian Tries – a man with whom you have only had a digital relationship so far. A sighting of him is a rare thing, you can tell today is a big day as Senor Tries rarely leaves his home in Rafaela.” Calvano said, laughing.

I decided, considering he was the other full time member of the media team, to go over and say a quick hello.

“Sebastian? Hello, I am Jorge Goncalves”, I ventured.

“Hmmmmyyyep”, was the response I got. Compared to the eye contact the verbal exchange was Shakespeare – Senor Tries didn’t even raise his eyes from the screen to acknowledge my greeting.

Sebastian Tries is middle aged, balding, slightly overweight and - I just learned – eternally melancholy. He also wears thin rimmed glasses, which on the right man could pass for trendy; he’s not the right man though. He is a man that can be best described as bland.

“I am here so I can immediately upload your interview with David Bisconti.” He said, eyes never leaving the screen.

Well I figured you’re not here to greet the press with your warmth and charm, I thought.

“No problem,” I answered, “nice to meet you Sebastian.” I lied, before walking back over to Juan Calvano who was laughing hysterically.

“You see why he stays in Rafaela now, Jorge?!” Calvano said, barely forcing the words out past the laughter.

08/07/09

Now as the press conference swings into gear you will probably be expecting me to tell you a tale of boorish journalists, aloof photographers and self obsessed television reporters, and you would probably gobble that up as an affirmation of the journalist stereotypes you subscribe to. However, that is an unfair slight, and I’m happy to confirm in this case quite untrue. In the scrum to get their question to David Bisconti we had journalists from La Capital newspaper, Rosario12 newspaper, the famous El Ciudadano and El Eslabon and radio was represented by Rosario3radio2. There was even a chap called Koji Komani who had travelled from Tokyo to ask whether Bisconti-San had learned anything in his time playing in Japan that he would take on in his role here; I wasn’t quite sure whether Komani’s presence was a measure of the significance of this appointment or a measure of just how much Japan has taken this sport to it’s collective heart over recent years – bit of both I guess.

So it was quite a crowd. Yet the mood was very friendly, there was no pushing or barging, there was no battling for prominence, there was plenty of mingling. Don’t get me wrong: if Maradona has a heart attack and your editor tells to he needs first copy or you’re toast then journalists get nasty, and there are some that are no angels at the best of times. But, in general journalists are decent enough types who will happily mill with each other, swap contacts, network, and they do want to tell a truthful story. They are a much misrepresented breed.

The actual press conference passed without a glitch: couple of simple questions regarding his happiness and tactical philosophy (it’s a dream job and he wants to play an attractive, winning brand of football), questions about staff and signings (he wants to give everyone the chance to prove themselves, and he will be looking to sign the best players available to the club) and a couple of other pretty standard questions. Anyone who has experience with these kind of events – and I don’t, this is my first, this information comes from Senor Calvano – knows that the actual press conference is so the TV can get GV’s (general visuals) and radio can get sound bites. The questions with substance take place when the manager gives interviews to, firstly, the written press then any other formats who have requested audience.

It was before the actual press conference that the excitement was present for me. After my rather frosty tête-à-tête with Senor Tries the media began to arrive. Senor Calvano’s plan worked beautifully: the very chatty and amiable Jonas was the first point of contact for arriving journalists and after a smile and a couple witticisms he would show them to their designated area of the Omar Palma hall. Angel – the cherub faced student – was simply to answer any queries, and Juan himself just seemed to go round to various reporters and greet them with comments like: “You drunk bastard, I’m surprised you can make it out your bed to a 10:30 conference – did your wife kick you out again?!” Suffice to say Juan Calvano must have built up quite a comfortable relationship with these folk over the years.

My job was to mingle and network. I was the new face on the block, and although Juan Calvano was present today there would be occasions in the future where, due to Senor Calvano’s executive duties, I would be flying solo so these people needed to know who I am. I was also under strict duties to be unwaveringly positive, journalists – and I maintain they’re a decent bunch – thrive on misplaced words, and they clearly knew they would get nothing from Calvano so his chatty, inexperienced new apprentice would be a target. His exact words were: “If any negative trash gets out i'll kill you boy. Jonas only tells jokes, Angel doesn’t talk, so if I read any negativity from a ‘Rosario Central source’ I’ll know it’s you – and I’ll string you up by your balls!” Juan Calvano has been very supportive since I took the job but it was apparent he didn’t want any screw-ups today.

So with the image of my testes in a noose firmly burned into my retinas I worked the room, chatting away to the assembled press. If I had taken the time to think about the situation I would have found it amazing that I was chatting to the crème de la crème of Argentinean journalism at a major press conference, when it seems like yesterday (hell, it almost was yesterday) my life was directionless; but I didn’t take time to think about it and I chatted away to Maria Gonzalez from El Ciudadano, Julio Debar from Rosario 12, Ariel Ortiz from La Capital and – even if I say so myself - I think I made a good impression, I even had a small chat in the broken Spanish that undoubtedly got his this assignment, to Koji Komani. All the while keeping it positive: Maria was told the story about how when Bisconti was offered the job he accepted without discussing terms first, Julio Debar nodded and scribbled shorthand as I told him David Bisconti was determined to ally exciting football with success at Rosario Central, I even told Koji that several facets of Bisconti’s management style were picked up in the Far East.

My chat drifted between true, hyperbole, and lies, but it was all good PR and I was keeping it positive. I had no doubt these experienced journalists would whittle out the bullshi1t, but they all seemed to see my stories were harmless enough and seemed to find me a decent enough press officer. That was pretty much all I could ask for on my first public assignment.

There was one prickly journalist though. Diego Cremonese – whose work I often read, and I found him a very witty and likable writer – seemed very cold and unimpressed by both the occasion, and my attempts to charm him. Diego is an imposing man: standing 6”1 and built like a rugby player you certainly would not want to cross him. It is not only his stature that makes him a dominating figure, Diego Cremonese has been sports editor at El Eslabon for 4 years now and he has been credited with personally destroying management teams at Rosario Central, Newell’s Old Boys and Cordoba. All in all, a man I was looking to make friends with.

“I know who he is.” He glared at me, as I began by telling Diego by telling him about David Bisconti, “I’m not an idiot.”

Tough crowd.

I got no response either as I tried to soften him up with some - I thought – copy-worthy quotes. I told him about how Bisconti had offers from other clubs but chose to come here. Nothing. I moved onto how Bisconti accepted the job without asking about money, after all Maria Gonzalez gobbled that up. Nothing. Right Jorge, bring out the big guns: I told him that David Bisconti generally believed Central could become a force in South American football again.

Diego Cremonese simply sniggered and walked away from me, heading towards his designated seat right in the front row. There’s a line in Con Air (many sociological quandaries can be solved by referring to Con Air, I find) when Nicolas Cage is snubbed by John Malkovich, and the guy beside him says: “not only did you NOT save that dudes life, but you didn’t make friends with Sirus the Virus”, that is how I felt at this moment: not only did I fail to give El Eslabon any positive copy but I didn’t make friends with Diego Cremonese.

08/07/09

“Right, that’ll do pigs!” was how Juan Calvano decided to inform the assembled media that the press conference was finished and David Bisconti would take no more questions. The hall laughed uproariously, it seemed his banter was famous in this region – to be frank it was a little boorish for my taste but it was good natured. David Bisconti posed for one of those slightly awkward ‘handshake’ poses with Horacio Usandizaga where the hands aren’t actually moving. Chairman Usandizaga was surprisingly quiet during the press conference – he can be a very fiery character and usually wastes no time in congratulating himself on any perceived success, perhaps underneath his almost legendary volcanic exterior there lies a more placid soul which is capable of recognising today was not his day, but Senor Bisconti’s.

While I’m mentioning Chairman Usandizaga I should make a note that I am considering writing a profile of him for either the programme or online, as I find it bizarre that he is the Chairman of the biggest club in the region and has held political offices in Rosario, yet nobody really knows him beyond hyperbolic hearsay.

After the ‘handshake’ picture had been taken the photographers scuttled away on their laptops, and the written press journalists went off to a smaller offshoot of the Omar Palma hall to have a more intimate chat with David Bisconti, although Juan Calvano did accompany him to make sure the interview was supervised. Horacio Usandizaga slipped back to his figurative ivory tower on the third floor, probably not to be seen again for months. That left me to exchange pleasantries with the journalists who were not in the back room with David Bisconti, and were now leaving. It was all very friendly and we exchanged some cards and nice words. Juan Calvano would see the written press out after the private interview. I was very happy – hospitality and networking-wise – with how the day went, although my meeting with Diego Cremonese still played on my mind.

I was now starting to think forward to my journalistic duty for the day: an interview with David Bisconti. In less than 10 minutes I would be sitting interviewing a former Argentinean international footballer, former Rosario Central player and new Rosario Central manager. It was the stuff of dreams for a first week in the job! My thoughts drifted back to my training. Interviews are much more effective if you have 3 or 4 broad topics you want to talk about rather than specific questions; it gives you more flexibility and room for manoeuvre to react to the answers given by the subject when you are not pigeon-holed by a list of questions.

The areas I wanted to address would be: 1) His ambitions and vision for the club, initially for this coming season, but also for his overall tenure (presuming he is kept on) – I won’t be adding the bit in parenthesis when I talk to him. 2) Signing targets, word in the corridors is that he is already interested in a few players, what type of players are they? Can he name any names to whet the appetite of the fans? 3) Tactical approach. Can he tell us about the shape and philosophy the team will have? The fans of Rosario Central are very savvy when it comes to tactics and will want to hear the boss talk about the ol’ tictacs. 4) Personal feelings like how does it feel to be back at the club? What are the memories? Do you have a message for the fans?

Yes, I was ready and raring to go. Admittedly: I have had a career which has lasted roughly the lifespan of a dragonfly thus far, but this is the highlight! Indeed, I must have been in an excited daydream because it was the written press being shown out of the Omar Palma hall by Juan Calvano that snapped me out of it.

“Right champ, you’re up”, Calvano encouraged, motioning towards the room the written press had just emerged from, “grab your Dictaphone and go get him.” He laughed.

I smiled weakly and headed for the room. The butterflies were back, having apparently invited some friends over and decided to have a drug-fuelled frenzied orgy in my lower intestine. I nodded as coolly as I could muster to Juan Calvano as I brushed past him.

“Jorge” he started, stopping me by touching my arm, “I’ve given you this little task because you need to do it. I could have done it but I would gain nothing from it. You, however, need to pop your cherry when it comes to Rosario Central stars and realise it is run of the mill – it is your job. David Bisconti is just a man like you or me, and for what it’s worth he is one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet. So, relax and go and do your job.” He barked.

Juan Calvano, it was becoming quickly apparent, was a great boss. He had a great knack of being supportive yet disparaging, leaving you more relaxed yet acutely aware of your responsibilities. That is pretty much the perfect motivational attribute for a superior.

Juan Calvano was right, I needn’t have worried. From the moment David Bisconti greeted me with a warm handshake and a genuine smile I felt very comfortable. We chatted for a good half an hour about everything from the teams current qualities to his management style; via some abstract chit-chat about the new art gallery opening on the outskirts of the financial village of Rosario. The general feeling I got off Senor Bisconti was that he was ‘a thinker’: a very intelligent, well spoken student of the game and a real pleasure to talk to. In fact my only worry is that he may be too nice – over in Italy you get the feeling the young, handsome, eloquent Leonardo Nascimento de Araújo is a little too good natured to manage a club like AC Milan. You could argue David Bisconti could fall into the same trap at Rosario Central.

I hope not. I hope he has massive success because he was a thoroughly likable man, and – to use Juan Calvano’s expression – I can’t think of anyone I’d rather have popped my cherry with. I now feel ready to talk to people on the staff at Rosario Central as if they were just ‘regular people’. David Bisconti was respectful and treated me like a colleague and that meant a lot. Although the fans will never know, and he will never receive recognition for it, David Bisconti’s first achievement as Rosario Central manager was to make a young newbie journalist feel like part of the football club.

Below you will find a transcript of David Bisconti’s first audio interview (cut and edited), given to me: Jorge Goncalves, and available EXCLUSIVELY on rosariocentral.ar:

JG: It’s been a busy day for you. What is going through your mind now?

DB: It’s been a busy day; but a great one. I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would be sitting inside this great stadium as manager of this wonderful football club. Today was interesting, but now I just can’t wait to get down to work and start working with the players.

JG: So what do you think these players can achieve?

DB: That is difficult to say just at the moment. I know the qualities of players like [Emilio] Zelaya, [Martin] Astudillo, and big Nicolas’ brother [Guillermo Burdisso, brother of the current AS Roma defender] among others. There is good quality there, and it is now my job to mould this squad into a successful unit. It’s all very well asking about individuals but a successful team comprises around 20 players, who all must do their part.

JG: Do you believe that 20 person playing squad is already in place or shall we expect a spending spree?

*Bisconti Laughs*

DB: There certainly isn’t enough money for a ‘spending spree’. As I say, we have quality within our squad, but it would be remiss of me to say: ‘I have no interest in bringing in new players’; of course I do.

JG: Could we have an insight who those targets could be?

DB: I’m actually going for a chat with the scouting team at the moment, I believe they have some dossiers on players who would fit certain position where we lack depth. I will then put a couple of names in the ring too. Once myself and the scouting team has had a couple of meetings I’ll have a chat with Horacio Usandizaga and see how we can go forward.

JG: But there’s no progress so far?

DB: This is my first official day in the job Jorge – I’m good but not that good. You’ll be the first to know, don’t worry.

*Both Laugh*

JG: Do you have an idea how the team will shape up tactically this year, and what the playing philosophy will be.

DB: Sure, I believe football is a simple game and I won’t look to overcomplicate things. I believe in being expensive when we have the ball, I will look to use the whole pitch, get my midfielders into the box and my fullbacks over-lapping. When we don’t have the ball I want a vigorous, strong unit which narrows the pitch and hunts in packs to win the ball back. If you were to formalise it I guess you would call it a 4-1-3-2.

JG: That sounds quite British in its philosophy: based around high tempo attacking and aggressive pressing when defending. Obviously you have experienced different styles of football in your career – more so than someone who stayed in Argentina their whole career. So is their still room for the ‘traditional’ virtues of Argentinean football? I’m thinking particularly about the ‘number 10’ role where the man in the hole dictates tempo and passing and creates.

DB: As I say, people make football seem more complicated than it is. Good players can fit into any system and although I perhaps wont be playing with a man in ‘the hole’ per se I see no reason why we cant still have the benefits of great passing and creativity from a ‘number 10-type’ player, just from a little deeper.

JG: And how successful will this brand of football be?

DB: Very, I hope. Obviously there are no certainties in football, but I have taken this job because I believe in the club, and the potential to build a good team – this club means so much to me that I would not have taken the job if I thought I might fail.

JG: That confidence is great, and will be music to the Rosarina faithful, what would you consider success then? Because, as you know, it has been 20 years since we last won the championship. In that time Newell’s Old Boys [major rivals] have won three and have been to the final of the Copa Libertadores twice – and they schooled two of the best players of recent times in Batistuta and Messi….we could really do with some glory.

DB: Football in Argentina is in a state of Flux. Boca and River are not as strong and dominant as they once were. Independiente are a good side but suffer from Veron-dependencia, when he isn’t there they become weaker. So you see other sides challenging. I see no reason we cannot challenge. If not immediately, then hopefully as the season progresses. I will try to bring you that glory Jorge!

*Both Laugh*

JG: Before I let you get to work: Is there a message you have for the fans today David?

DB: Sure. It is the greatest honour of my life to have been chosen to lead this football club, and I will give every fibre of my being to ensure my stewardship is entertaining and successful, and gives this great club – and the best fans in the World – everything they deserve.

JG: Thanks for your time.

DB: Pleasure Jorge, any time.

11/07/09

I had time after the press conference a few days ago to have a chat with Angelo (Angel), and I must say he’s a terrific young man. He has a passion for Rosario Central which matches my own and he has an absolute determination to make his way in the business of football journalism. In many ways he is the young man I knew I should have been at his age. He also has the advantage of youthful looks and an innocent charm – the most dangerous reporter is the one whom nobody believes is a threat!

I made sure to give him my e-mail address and suggested we meet for a coffee every couple of weeks and chat about what he can be doing in and around the place. Naturally, he is still studying, but any spare time he has he seems keen to spend doing work for us.

Today I received my first correspondence from him, he had gone on the Argentine Football Association website and researched our fixtures for the coming season, and had sent them to me nicely presented. It must have been one tedious effort but I appreciated it, and after having a scan of the fixtures I forwarded it on to Sebastian Tries to for immediate publication on the club website:

Club Atletico Rosario Central Fixtures 2009/10

(Key: FR = Friendly, PD AP = Primera Division Apertura, PD CL = Primera Division Clausura):

22.07.09 River Plate (Uru) (A) FR

27.07.09 Nuevo Chicago (A) FR

01.08.09 Ferro (A) FR

08.08.09 GFCO Ajaccio (H) FR

16.08.09 Colon (H) PD AP

19.08.09 Tigre (A) PD AP

22.08.09 Indepediente (H) PD AP

30.08.09 Boca Juniors (A) PD AP

12.09.09 Estudiantes LP (H) PD AP

16.09.09 Atletico Tucuman (A) PD AP

20.09.09 San Lorenzo (H) PD AP

27.09.09 Argentinos (A) PD AP

04.10.09 Lanus (H) PD AP

18.10.09 Arsenal de Sarandi (H) PD AP

25.10.09 Chacaricta (A) PD AP

28.10.09 Newell’s Old Boys (A) PD AP

01.11.09 River Plate (H) PD AP

08.11.09 Velez (A) PD AP

15.11.09 Huracan (H) PD AP

22.11.09 Godoy Cruz (A) PD AP

29.11.09 Banfield (H) PD AP

06.12.09 Racing Club (H) PD AP

13.12.09 Gimnasia LP (A) PD AP

31.01.10 Tigre (H) PD CL

03.02.10 Indepediente (A) PD CL

07.02.10 Colon (A) PD CL

14.02.10 Boca Juniors (H) PD CL

21.02.10 Estudiantes LP (A) PD CL

24.02.10 Atletico Tucuman (H) PD CL

28.02.10 Argentinos (H) PD CL

07.03.10 Arsenal de Sarandi (A) PD CL

14.03.10 San Lorenzo (A) PD CL

17.03.10 Chacarita (H) PD CL

21.03.10 Lanus (A) PD CL

28.03.10 Newell’s Old Boys (H) PD CL

04.04.10 River Plate (A) PD CL

11.04.10 Velez (H) PD CL

18.04.10 Huracan (A) PD CL

25.04.10 Godoy Cruz (A) PD CL

02.05.10 Banfield (A) PD CL

09.05.10 Racing Club (A) PD CL

16.05.10 Gimnasio LP (H) PD CL

To my shame I hadn’t actually had time to have a proper look at the fixtures, after all the last few days have been something of a shock to the system, so I was very appreciative of Angel’s initiative in researching the fixtures and sending them over to me. The first thing that strikes immediately when looking at the fixture list is the massive Santa Fe derby on the opening day at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito as we host Colon. The only bigger game could have been Newell’s Old Boys, so the new manager, and the team, will have to be well prepared by the time August 16th comes around because the crowd will not be forgiving even if it is David Bisconti’s first competitive match in charge.

The other thing that catches the eye from the fixtures is the Independiente, Boca & Estudiantes LP triple-header in late August/early September. Hopefully the team will have gelled sufficiently to give the big guns a real run for their money.

13/07/09

Today started with a call from a chap called Jonay over at El Eslabon. They had caught wind of the frosty relationship between Lucas Moya and David Bisconti. As I noted in my match report of Rosario versus Rosario Reserves Lucas Moya is a very talented left winger, but due to the fact Senor Bisconti doesn’t want to play with traditional wide men Lucas finds himself somewhat marginalised.

I certainly don’t have the authority to say whether a player will be leaving or not, but during my studies I learned journalism was about give and take: about giving the journalists enough of a snippet to make them feel like they owe you one. You scratch my back etc, as it were. So I let Jonay know that the club would probably be considering offers for the player, but there are no certainties.

I knew El Eslabon would run with a story quoting a ‘Rosario Central source’ stating Moya was on his way out, but it was a small price to pay to curry favour with a major daily newspaper – plus there was every chance Moya would be for the off anyway.

Today was also the day I really got to grips with the role I play on a daily basis at this football club: dealing with press enquiries and keeping an ear out for news from up on high, which I immediately distribute to Sebastian Tries to get online. So I had dealt with my press enquiries regarding Lucas Moya for the day; now I had to deal with an avalanche of news from the top regarding arrivals at the club:

“Only Graff is a permanent deal, so be sure to big him up. But if the Cardetti one comes off that will be a talker, so make sure that’s well written as well”, Juan Calvano was emphasising on the phone. I hadn’t seen Juan this week, but he was keeping in touch and making sure I was on top of things via the telephone.

“Right, I’ll put out the Graff story first of all, it shouldn’t take long before one of the wires picks it up. Then I’ll put together a little compilation story about the trialists, giving Martin top billing.” I answered, impressing myself with my confidence and competence.

“Sounds good,” Juan affirmed, “You excited?” Juan asked, criptically.

“About what?”

“Well you must have grown up watching Martin Cardetti from the stands; I expect you’ll be in full doting schoolgirl mode if you see him around the place!” He said, laughing.

“Oh please, they call me ‘cucumber’; as in: cool as a…” Quoting Bart Simpson may have been a bad bluff.

“Yeah right,” was the sarcastic response, “I want the word out within the hour, see you later.”

“Done,” I assured, “Bye boss.” With that the line went dead and I got to work:

GRAFF SIGNS FOR ROSARIO CENTRAL

Jorge Goncalves writes

Club Atletico Rosario Central are delighted to officially announce the signing of experienced left fullback Patricio Graff. Patricio brings a wealth of experience of top level football with him and will undoubtedly prove a steadying influence on a young squad.

Patricio has been out of contract since leaving Gimnasia (LP) and Los Canallas are delighted to have fended off fierce competition from other suitors for his signature.

He boasts over 317 matches in his career; a career which has spanned Holland, Spain and Argentina with massive clubs like Feyenoord. We are delighted to welcome him back to the place where it all began – after all it was here at Rosario Central where he made his name, playing 24 times in the 1995/96 season, and there is no doubt he will be looking to prove as popular this time round.

Patricio has signed a contract until July of 2011 and we fully expect him to be an important member of the team until that time.

Patricio has been quoted as saying: “I am delighted to be back, and I am very excited about the project at this club.”

“There is some fantastic young talent here, and I hope I can help bring this talent to the fore with my qualities and experience.”

Profile:

Patricio Graff, Aged 33 (Arg) D/WB L: A hugely experience left back who brings great pedigree to the club. He also still possesses plenty of quality, with good physicality, excellent work rate and stamina, and great aerial ability there is no suggestion he will only be in the team if an old head is required – he will be tere on merit.

Easy peasy. Just the bare bones, I’ll let the press put the meat on the story as the pick it up, I’ve given them a hand with a couple of invented quotes though. I’m sure if someone asked him Patricio Graff would be excited about the project.

I sent that off to Sebastian to get online immediately and set about telling the World about the influx of trialists David Bisconti has decided to run the rule over:

ROSARIO CENTRAL BRING IN FOUR TRIALISTS

Jorge Goncalves writes

New manager David Bisconti has wasted no time in shaking things up. He has today brought in four players on four-week trials in order to decipher whether they are worth bringing to the club permanently. One trialist, in particular, is quite the turn-up for the books.

Martin Cardetti spent a highly successful three seasons with Rosario Central starting in 1995, before getting his big move to River Plate. Cardetti finds himself a free agent after being released by Rosario Central’s Santa Fe neighbours Colon in the summer. If Cardetti impresses and is signed he will become the second player to cross from Colon to Central this season after the move of Diego Chitzoff, and add further spice to the opening day encounter between Central and Colon at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito.

The other trialists may not be quite so familiar. Pedro Aguirrez has been out of football since leaving El Salvador club CD FAS in 2008, but does possess excellent Primera Division pedigree with over 100 top flight matches in spells with Gimnasia (J) and Nuevo Chicago. He is a centre back and will be looking to cement a contract as a wise head in a youthful pool of centre backs.

26 year old centre back Miguel Portillo left for Switzerland after coming through the Boca Juniors academy in 2001 and has played for Neuchatel Xamax, Young Boys, Servette as well as Angers in France. He has returned home to try and crack the Primera after leaving Young Boys in the summer.

Perhaps competing for a contract with Martin Cardetti is 26 year old striker Sebastian Monesterolo. Sebastian has had a chequered career: playing in Malta with Jordi Cruyff with Valetta, playing in Kuwait with Al-Kuwait, and in Israel with Bnei Lod. He has never played in the Primer Division though.

Profiles:

Martin Cardetti, Aged 33 (Arg) SC: Martin still possesses great pace for a man advancing in years, and he still very much possesses his greatest attribute: an eye for goal. The last couple of seasons have been a big let down with Colon, but there is no doubt he would be itching to come back to his first club and prove all the doubters wrong – starting against Colon.

Pedro Aguirrez, Aged 35 (Arg) D R/C: Pedro is a little bit of a phenomenon in that he still retains great pace despite being 35 years of age, which makes him an exciting option for a centre back: 16 years in the game, yet still as sprightly as a vole; he is notoriously fiery though, and it remains to be seen if Senor Bisconti will take a risk on a man whose aggression is his most notable attribute.

Miguel Portillo, Aged 26 (Arg) D C: The complete antithesis of Aguirrez. Miguel has been schooled in Europe and is very adept at reading the game, passing the ball out, and tactical defending, he is the sophisticated option: the Fabio Cannavaro to Aguirrez’ Paolo Montero.

Sebastian Monesterolo, Aged 26 (Arg) SC: Sebastian is a born goal scorer, his finishing ability is second to none, but it remains to be seen whether he has enough in his overall game to justify giving him a permanent contract.

Juan Calvano would be happy; the two stories were published about 45 minutes after I got off the phone with him. The papers would probably pick them up within a couple of hours. I expected real interest in the prospect of a Martin Cardetti return, perhaps even a backlash after his spell with Colon.

I also think we may have a couple of people take a pop at our recruitment age, with Graff at 33, and two trialists over 33. For whatever my opinion is worth I think David is doing the right thing, there is talent in that squad but they need experience to guide them.

16/07/09

After a few days of answering the phone to journalists fishing for leads and punching out some routine copy in advance of the match programmes later in the year I was starting to feel fairly relaxed and in control in my new job.

Until all hell broke loose today. Around midday I received a phone call from an exceedingly flustered Juan Calvano:

“****, no, no. He took it, I can’t believe he took it. Huesca goddammit, Huesca. 2nd Division in Spain, is that what it has come to – 2nd Division in Spain trumps Rosario”, he rambled.

“Gonzalo?” I ventured. I was talking about Gonzalo Choy, there were rumours Gonzalo Choy was interesting Huesca of Spain under freedom of contract. With his contract expiring in January he was free to talk to them.

“Of course”, Juan spat. “Right, we have to spin this just right or the fans will butcher us. They know how important Choy is to Central, and they’ll take this as a new low Jorge! You’re a fan, what would you want to hear?”

I was flattered to be consulted on matters of strategies when dealing with something as important as placating fans, so I tried to be as useful as possible.

“I’d want to hear that we had expected this, and have contingencies in place. That Gonzalo is talented but no man can hold the club to ransom and Rosario Central will continue to thrive in the New Year when Choy leaves.”

“That’s good Jorge.” At a time when one of our best players had just agreed to leave for no fee, and we were thinking of a strategy to stop fans protesting the regime before David Bisconti has had a single match it was probably self indulgent for me to be delighted wit the personal praise, but I was.

“So,” Juan continued, “Do it. Write up a press release saying everything you have just said and send it to Sebastian so we can get it up on the website right away. We’ll go on the offensive and break the story of Choy leaving before the papers do – and we can decide the spin!”

Juan Calvano was in full media-savant mode. I pictured him puffing his cigar and pacing his office while considering his options.

“Have you heard of Ysrael Zuniga, Jorge?” Juan asked tentatively, as if not quite sure if he wanted to disclose something.

“Vaguely,” I answered honestly, “Peruvian striker I think. Has played all over the place: Coventry, Bursaspor. He played for a season here with Estudiantes ages ago too.”

“That’s the one Jorge. Horacio Usandizaga signed him this morning when Choy told us he was leaving. Zuniga comes in as Choy goes out. If we are going to go attacking let’s go all out attack, release news of Zuniga signing too, I was going to let it wait but it’s the perfect bright side to the Choy story.”

I was astounded. Not only had today heralded the loss of one of the biggest talents at the club in January, but we had already signed a replacement. It was becoming apparent to me what a fast paced World I was now involved in.

“Okay, so you want me to…….” I tried to compose my thoughts and order what I was to write up but failed miserably.

“Come on Jorge, get with it man! I want you to type up a story detailing that Gonzalo Choy is leaving, spin it with pnash, and announce Zuniga is arriving and that he’ll be a great success and make everyone forget about Gonzalo Choy. Football is all about perception Jorge, and make no mistake: If David Bisconti’s regime is perceived as having kicked of with a failure like this he may never recover. Get copy up within 30 minutes.” With that the line went dead.

So effectively Juan Calvano was telling me we were responsible for making David Bisconti a success. No pressure then. I began to type:

CHOY LEAVES; ZUNIGA ARRIVES

Jorge Goncalves writes

Rosario Central can today confirm that Uruguayan forward Gonzalo Choy has decided to reject the offer of an extension with Los Canallas, instead decided to sign a pre-contract agreement with Liga Adelante outfit Huesca in Spain. Central made a very generous contract offer which would have seen Choy amongst the highest earners at the club, but he has decided to move on and we respect that decision. We must emphasise again that Rosario Central did make an offer of renewal, but will simply not break the wage structure for one man.

Gonzalo leaves in January 2010 with all Rosario Central’s best wishes, he has been an excellent servant to the club since arriving from Monterrey in 2008 and will undoubtedly be a success in Spain.

As far as the future of Club Atletico Rosario Central: that is as bright as ever, even with the impending departure of the big Uruguayan. We are delighted to announce the signing of the massively experienced, highly talented, Peruvian striker Ysrael Zuniga on a pre-contract. Zuniga will arrive as Choy is leaving in January and we have no doubt that he will prove an exceedingly adept replacement and keep the goals flowing when the clausura kicks of in January.

Zuniga has 22 caps and an absolutely prolific goal scoring record in Peru with Melgar, Bolognesi, Sporting Cristal and Universitario. He has also broadened his horizons over his career span, spending spells in England with Coventry, and in Turkey with Bursaspor. He has a little experience of Primera Division football in Argentina, playing 6 games with Estudiantes (LP) in 2003.

Everyone at Rosario Central would emphasise we must give our absolute support to Gonzalo Choy throughout the apertura, and send him off with fond memories of this city and this club, safe in the knowledge that come January we already have a ready made replacement.

The article was a pretty standard 300 word news article - a journalist will write tens of thousands of them in the course of their career, but that was a particularly tricky one. There is a balancing act between placating the fans and not alienating a player who could still prove very valuable to the club over the next couple of months. It wasn’t perfect, but given a half hour time limit I decided it did the job and I sent it over to Sebastian.

All there is to do now is wait for the backlash. Either the article would do its job and the fans would see things our way, or there would be serious discontent amongst the Rosario Central faithful as this story broke.

17/07/09

“Bisconti out! Bisconti out! Bisconti out”, the shouts gradually drifted up the corridor into my office. I snapped my head up from my Mac.

“Ho-ra-cio: he must go! Ho-rac-io: he must go!!”, the shouts were getting even louder.

After another minute or so of chanting the sound was right upon my doorway, and Juan Calvano popped his head round the door, laughing. I was glad to see him, it certainly beats some lunatic fan who managed to blag his way into the stadium to express, ahem, displeasure.

“Well, that’s what I expected anyway, Jorge”, Calvano continued, still smiling, pulling himself a chair in front of me, “Listen, you did superbly yesterday. The press are gobbling up our spin and we’ve got people thinking that getting Zuniga in for Choy is a real coup.” He was beaming.

“I’m glad”, I agreed, “For what its worth I think it could be a good move. Gonzalo was more of a creator. We have lots of those. We need finishers at the club, Zuniga certainly has that.”

“Look at you: all grown up and with opinions of your own!” Calvano laughed, half affectionately and half patronisingly.

“Anyway,” He started, “I’m proud of the work you did yesterday and very happy with your progress so far, but I’ve not came all the way down here to say well done. I’ve come down to make sure you have a passport and are willing to travel.” He ventured.

“Yes, and yes.” I answered, unsure of what he was getting at.

“Excellent, in that case when you head home tonight pack a bag for a couple of nights, get your travel documents together and get ready for a little trip to Uruguay.”

“Uruguay.”

“Of course,” Calvano said firmly, “River Plate (Uru) represent our first real friendly and the fans will want to get a match report right away, so you’ll be travelling with the squad to Uruguay and reporting on the game.”

I hadn’t even considered being sent to Uruguay this week, but now I thought about it I guess it was quite obvious that a club reporter would have to be present – and Juan Calvano was never going to bother with such a nothing match.

“Yeah. Sure. Great.” I answered

“Also, you’ll be with the players for a few days so have a chat with them, build a rapport, get an interview maybe. It’s no different from every other kind of networking we have to do in this job Jorge.” Juan Calvano smiled reassuringly.

I smiled weakly back at him as he rose and left my office. I still wasn’t comfortable with the idea of walking up to a Rosario Central star and chatting with him as if I was his equal, it was a foreign concept to me – but I would have to get used to it in the next couple of days.

This is top stuff. Having never experienced your work before I must say that it is of a top quality standard. Shall be following with mounted interest

This is top stuff. Having never experienced your work before I must say that it is of a top quality standard. Shall be following with mounted interest

Thanks sherm, I appreciate that, always nice to know people are reading. I hope you continue to enjoy.

21/07/09

Footballers are a funny old breed, and the one characteristic they all seem to share is paranoia when somebody tries to be friendly or build a rapport. I guess it comes from years of people using them for money or fame, or trying to build a friendship that becomes beneficial to them rather than because they like the person. It must be quite a lonely way to live your life: not knowing whether people are being genuine to you or if they are kiss-and-tell whores, undercover journalists or some other fiend.

Nevertheless in my couple of days in Montevideo with the players and coaching staff a good few of the boys have got pretty comfortable with me, and I’ll take my admission into Andres Franzoia’s card school as a sign that I am now a trusted member of the football club staff.

Andres Franzoia is very much the ‘cheeky chappy’ stereotype at the football club. He is the very same off the pitch as he is on it: inventive, energetic and occasionally dumbfounding. Once we got to our hotel in Montevideo I caught up with him in the bar and plucked up the courage to say hello, we got chatting about the coming season and I found his enthusiasm very infectious and immediately took a shine to him. Thankfully the feeling was mutual and he was good enough to introduce me to a few of the other players, the very fact I had the endorsement of Andres seemed to disarm many of the lads. There were a few that weren’t interesting in socialising: Gonzalo Choy seems a bit of a big Latin sulk to me, Martin Astudillo’s successful time in Europe has perhaps created a sense of aloofness for he spent the whole time on his own hitting on bar staff/maid/waitresses, Jorge Broun has a hell of an ego I’m told, and there were a few others, but for the most part it seemed like a great bunch.

I really enjoyed meeting Paul Ambrosi. He seemed exceedingly modest an accommodating and we must have chatted for about 45 minutes in the foyer with a couple of glasses of imported Highland Park 16 year old. For a man who has lifted the biggest title this continent has to offer, and has represented his country at the very highest level I was astounded how down to earth he was, and how humbled he was to now be playing in the Argentine top flight. I genuinely felt like shaking him and saying: “We should be humbled, not you. You’re a star.” However I was doing a good job at staying cool on this trip and I didn’t want to blow it.

After having a brief chat with Patricio Graff I must say: I think he is a masterstroke by Bisconti. He wasn’t overly interested in being my friend or contact, but he was very willing to offer me advice and suggested I find him if I ever felt overwhelmed at the club. Everything about him is fatherly, and if he transmits that to the younger players he could be a massive asset.

I’m saving the best until last. Last night I was minding my own business in the bar, enjoying the jazz pianist’s dulcet tinklings with a glass of that sumptuous Highland Park Ambrosi had me hooked on and making some pre-match notes, when I heard from a table across the floor:

“Jorge…..Jorge, come over here. Stop being a loner.” A warm smile and friendly welcome was being extended by David Bisconti. Naturally the boss had been busy on this trip and I hadn’t seen him so far, but here he was, inviting me over to his table.

Well….I say his table, it wasn’t just him on it. I was now walking across the floor to join a table of David Bisconti, Jose Chamot, Jesus Mendez and Martin Cardetti. I was all I could muster not to let my knees knock together. As it turned out I needn’t have worried, David was the dominant personality at the table and we already got on great. The legend that is Jose Chamot is surprisingly quiet in his coaching incarnation, especially considering the vocal player he was, but was perfectly amiable. Cardetti and Mendez were telling anecdotes and jokes and generally mucking about together – it’s amazing how the presence of authority can bring out the child in you, and the manager and assistant manager of Rosario Central were certainly bring out the kids in Martin and Jesus, so I didn’t really get to chat with them. It was still and honour to have had a few drinks and a few laughs at the table of the manager, assistant manager, captain, and past great.

One of the topics of conversation at the table was how good Guillermo Burdisso was looking in training, and before I left the table and headed to bed David Bisconti told me to bring my Dictaphone to breakfast as he’d lined up a chat for me with young Burdisso before setting off for the match.

Happy as a clam, I turned in.

22/07/09

Below is a transcript of the www.rosariocentral.ar exclusive interview with Guillermo Burdisso, all the way from Rosario Central’s training camp in Montevideo:

JG: Guillermo, right now people all over the World will recognise the surname – your brother Nicolas has had a fantastic career and now turns out for AS Roma. Do you believe you are now ready to make a step up this season a make a name for yourself?

GB: I am very very proud of Nicolas. I watch him every week and cant believe it is the same Nicolas that taught me to do keepy ups in the garden – mainly because he looks so clumsy playing in Italy *laughs* But I have only pride for Nicolas, I don’t feel the need to compete with his achievements. He is my big brother, regardless of what I do in my career he will always be the man. However, yes, I do think this season I am ready to become a regular starter and important player for Central, I got a taste last year and I thought I played well and now I think I am ready for more.

JG: Do you worry about the age of the backline? You are only 20 and many of the other centre back options are just as youthful.

GB: It’s not my job to worry about such things. If Senor Bisconti believes there is a problem then he will rectify it and bring in a more experienced defender. I don’t personally think it is a problem, I feel I am good enough – my age is just a number.

JG: So Ortega, Palermo, Riquelme, Veron et al don’t faze you?

GB: Absolutely not, all that list makes me want to do is get out there and test my skills against the very best in the country and see how I match up.

JG: Admirable. How is life with the new coaching regime?

GB: Senor Bisconti is a good man. He is not a loud manager; he has very focused ideas about how he wants the team to play and expresses his ideas calmly and eloquently. He is comparable to a kindly professor, and all the players have respect for his knowledge of the game, he speaks so well about it.

JG: So you feel confident this season can be successful with David Bisconti at the helm?

GB: Absolutely.

JG: And how is Montevideo treating you?

GB: It is a super city. Obviously we have spent most the time training or in the hotel, but on the brief occasions we have got to see some of the city it is a lovely place. Very bustling and busy but still very nice.

JG: How serious a test do you see today’s game as?

GB: Very. River Plate of Uruguay are a top Uruguayan side and will provide an excellent measure of exactly where we are in our preparations for the coming season, plus pre-season is a tough, gruelling time of the year so its actually respite to go out and just play a match for 90 minutes instead of constant fitness work!

*Both laugh*

JG: Well I’ll let you go and enjoy your match then. Thanks for the time Guillermo.

GB: No problem Jorge.

22/07/09

I seemed to me that regardless of what Guillermo Burdisso insisted, David Bisconti wasn’t necessarily considering this match very important. Two of his central midfield three were not actually midfielders and the third choice keeper was between the sticks. Three of the four trialists were in the starting line-up so that would certainly provide some semblance of interest to the encounter.

I took my seat in the modest press box of the Parque Federico Omar Saroldi and plugged the Ethernet cable into my laptop and hooked my laptop up to the power supply in preparation for the two teams coming out.

I took a moment to take in my surroundings. The stadium was relatively quaint, around the 5500 mark, all-seated. I was pleased to see the stadium looked reasonably full for what was their first friendly match of the season, and – of course – David Bisconti’s first official friendly. Club Atletico River Plate of Uruguay isn’t an overly successful club: they have never one the Uruguayan Primera, the closest they’ve come being 1992 when they were runners-up. They are a strong club, though, and are generally considered to be on the rise after a third place finish in 2008.

River Plate (Uru) vs. Rosario Central, Parque Federico Omar Saroldi, Montevideo. Friendly. Att: 1755

Rosario Central (4-1-3-2): Facundo; Graff, Burdisso, Portillo, Aguirrez; Mendez ©; Nunez, Gomez, Chitzoff; Cardetti, Franzoia

Jorge Goncalves writes

It has to be said the first 20 minutes went by at a somewhat pedestrian pace, with both teams fairly happy to size each other up. The only incidents of notes were niggling fouls which left Jesus Mendez and Martin Cardetti requiring treatment, which is pretty much the worst thing that can come from friendly matches: at least defeats can be constructive, pre-season injuries are just terrible.

The first chance went the way of the visitors as Martin Cardetti drifted to the left flanked and fizzed in a low cross which eluded everyone. Franzoia chased it down and crossed for Gomez to head straight into the arms of River keeper William Fernandez. That seemed to put the wind in the sails of Central and Jesus Mendez set Cardetti through on goal 5 minutes later, however with the angle closing and the defender gaining Martin fired his shot straight at Fernandez.

Central didn’t have long to wait for the goal. A matter of minutes after Cardetti’s chance Jonotan Gomez threaded a delightful pass through for Andres Franzoia who fired high and hard into the River net from 10 yards to make it 1-0 t the visitors.

Central were now utterly dominant and only a great save from Fernandez to deny Gervasio Nunez, and a goal line clearance to deny trialist Aguirrez meant the score was only 1-0 at half time. The deluge of substitutions many expected at half time didn’t arrive – with only Alexis Danelon coming on to play an unfamiliar holding midfield role, and Monesterolo coming on for Cardetti, presumably in the interest of fairness as the compete for a contract – so there was genuine hope the performance of the first half could continue into the second.

Half time substitutions: Danelon for Mendez…..Monesterolo for Cardetti

The flow continued unabated towards the River goalmouth in the second period. Within 5 minutes of the restart Franzoia had been set free by Danelon just inside the box and his shot required a sharp parry wide by the over worked Fernanadez. A good performance was tempered a minute later as the impressive young Jonatan Gomez limped off.

51st minute substitution: Ocampo for Gomez

Gervasio Nunez appeared desperate to make the most of his start in an unfamiliar central midfield role and had a rasping shot fly just past the post from 25 yards. Another player desperate to impress is trialist Sebastian Monesterolo and he had the perfect opportunity to get his name on the score sheet when a long punt forward from Burdisso broke the inept offside trap and set him clean through on goal, but he proceeded to fire a low shot straight at the keepers legs.

66th minute substitutions: Galindez for Facundo….Braghieri for Graff….Fassi for Burdisso….Chitzoff for Ambrosi….Choy for Franzoia

Perhaps the substitutions disrupted the style of Central, but River started to have a little more of the match, and managed to grab a goal in the short time they were on top. Aguirrez allowed too much room to the left winger to get the cross in and big Richard Porta towered above a static defence to make it 1-1. Rosario Central responded with shots from Ocampo and a good Fassi header but couldn’t regain the lead, and despite a shot count of 14 to 2 the game ended a draw.

River Plate (Uru) (Porta 80’) 1 – 1 Rosario Central (Franzoia 31’)

MoM: Guillermo Burdisso 7.6

23/07/09

The journey back from Montevideo was great fun. With the players all fairly comfortable with my presence I felt a little like a journalist travelling with a famous rock band, I spent the whole trip wandering up and down the cabin and chatting with those players who I had got to know over the past few days. I was actually a little taken aback by my own bravado in being confident enough to simply go up and chat to these guys, but Juan Calvano was right, the last few days made me realise these men were just men and it was my job to be comfortable around them when I was covering a game.

It’s only a couple of hours from Montedvideo to Rosario, as Argentina and Uruguay are next door (unfriendly) neighbours. But it provided me with plenty of opportunity to garner some inside information from the players I was chatting with. For example, 16 year old Lucas Goicoechea, who I was so impressed by when the Reserves played the Rosario first team, is now officially being tutored by Rosario Central captain Jesus Mendez. Apparently Senor Bisconti sees Mendez as the perfect role model in terms of both talent and temperament to make sure Goicoechea fulfils his limitless potential.

Gervasio Nunez is clearly a nervous flyer, and the 6 complementary Jack Daniels had him singing like a canary when I sat down to try and keep his mind off our altitude:

“Let you tell…no let me tell you something: Wingers! Bisconti, wingers.” He insisted, slurring.

“What about the manager and wingers?” I prodded.

“Hates ‘em. I’m having to pretend I’m a left back otherwise he’ll ‘Moya’ me!!” He laughed ruefully.

“’Moya’ you?” I enquired.

“Yes Moya, he shipped him out to Argentinos on loan this morning. What a talent he is too, but Bisconti doesn’t believe in wingers so he’s shipping anyone out who can’t play full back or centrally. F*cking brilliant!” With that statement of mild insubordination Gervasio passed out.

Gervasio is a mild guy, and I have no doubt that it was more Mr Jack Daniels talking than him, but he had passed on some interesting news: So Lucas Moya has been moved on to Argentinos. I checked around and it turns out Gervasio Nunez was absolutely correct. Moya has signed initially on a 12 month loan, with the option to make the move permanent for a mere £45,000.

Whilst playing cards with a couple of the other players I picked up another snippet of information, apparently 20 year old Mario Paglialunga has impressed the coaching staff in the reserves so much this season that he has been immediately drafted in to train with the seniors when the squad get back from Montevideo. There is no indication exactly how much football he will get this season, but he is certainly now considered a first team player. For Rosario Central that meant more depth; for me that meant updating the first team squad on the website:

Mario Paglialunga, Aged 20 (Aged 20) DM/M C: Another hot prospect to come through the Academia rosarina. Mario has impressed the coaching staff in the reserves to such an extent that he will be a member of the first team in 2009/10. He makes the step up with a reputation for hard work, stamina, and an ability to pick out a pass in a packed midfield.

Having chatted with several of the players, played some cards, comforted a drunk, and caught up on all the gossip…and even done some work, I sat back, securely fastened in my seat as we came into Rosario. And with a squeal of the tyres we were back. Terra firma. Rosario. Home.

25/07/09

It is already clear, as I approach the end of my first month as press officer at Rosario Central, that this is a job with two very different sides. There is the exciting, almost magical side which sees me thrusted into situations such as drinking with Jose Chamot, Martin Cardetti et al in the bar of a plush Monteviedeo hotel. Then there is the side of the job which is almost on a par with being an office worker. Now that isn’t a complaint, I just want to make sure I am presenting a balanced picture of what this job entails.

For example, I’ve spent yesterday and today answering phone calls. Not particularly exciting ones at that. An endless stream of journalists with an endless stream of questions. Is Jorge Broun leaving? No. Can you confirm Lucas Moya has moved to Argentinos? Yes, on loan with a view to a permanent deal. Will Gonzalo Choy still be a first choice after announcing he is planning to leave in January? I don’t pick the team friend, how can I possibly answer that!?

You get the general picture. As I say: I am not moaning, I just want to give an accurate reflection of what I have learned this job is about. The interviews, schmoozing with players, and matches are great, but 70% of the workload is dealing with questions you aren’t really authorised to answer/don’t know the answer to.

Another large aspect of this job is preparing a match programme. Now, we don’t have match programmes for friendly’s, which means I am currently working towards having enough copy to fill our first programme which will be when we face Colon on 16th August in the massive season opener. You will all have read many a match programme over the years, and I doubt the Rosario Central programme will be much different – you can only do so much with a match programme; it is chewing gum for the eyes as fans tuck into their San Miguel and churros at half time.

Nevertheless I’m keen that we do a decent job. Senor Calvano has young Angel writing up some Youth profiles and the opposition profile, and he says he is happy to report on the reserves and U19’s as well as providing opposition profiles for the foreseeable future, which is another job I don’t need to worry about. Juan Calvano will provide a couple of features but not much, but will edit the whole thing together before it goes to print. That leaves me to fill in the gaps. We will have a Captains Column which Jesus Mendez will provide for the programme (I’m assured he is a rather clever guy, and doesn’t need it ghost written, which is great), probably a look back on previous Central vs. Colon derbies and some other pretty standard match programme fare.

I’m reluctant to bore you with my work towards the match programme as I know you will have read a million similar articles, but today let me give you a little insight into what I’m putting the finishing touches to. Earlier this week when I was chatting with Senor Calvano I pitched a couple of ideas for the match programme. One was called A to Z and the other was called Twin Peaks, and I am currently finishing off my Twin Peaks article for the match programme. It’s not a particularly clever or groundbreaking concept, but at least it provides a little bit of interest – basically I write an article about the football culture of one of Rosario’s official twin cities around the World: the parallels, the successes, the tragedies.

My first Twin Peaks is the Paraguayan capital of Asuncion, and it is finished and ready to send over to Juan Calvano:

For publication in the match programme of Rosario Central vs Colon, 16/08/09:

Twin peaks

Asuncion

Asuncion is the capital of, and largest city in, Paraguay, with over 30% of the population of Paraguay living in the city. As well as a terrific football heritage, Asuncion boasts another thing in common with Rosario – financial importance. Whilst Rosario houses many Argentine HQs of major conglomerates, Asuncion is at the hub of Paraguay’s financial clout, providing a large amount of the nations GDP through textiles and tobacco.

Asuncion is not considered a ‘traditionally’ beautiful city, but it does possess an urban charm – let’s not forget, many outsiders would come to Rosario and look at the crowded streets and tall gleaming buildings and assume our city was a modern, urban, soulless cell, but sometimes we need to look deeper. When you look deeper it becomes apparent Asuncion has its charms: the Godoi Museum and the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes spring to mind, museums which host some of the finest works of art in South America. Other landmarks include the Palacio de los López, the old Senate building, the Catedral Metropolitana and the Casa de la Independencia (one of the few examples of colonial architecture remaining in the city).

However, it quickly becomes clear the passion in Asuncion is not art or architecture, it is football. That is only natural when your city plays host to some of the most famous names on the continent. Olimpia, Cerro Porteño, Club Libertad, Club Nacional, Club Guaraní, Club Sol de América all call Asuncion their home.

Olimpia are, of course, the most famous. They can boast 3 Copa Libertadores crowns and have won the Paraguayan championship an astounding 38 times. They have become almost a mythical side in Paraguay and are certainly the most successful club in our twin city. In recent years, however, Olimpia’s star has waned, and their most noteworthy success of recent years has been bringing through Roque Santa Cruz – Olimpia have not won a domestic title since 2000.

Since 2000 Libertad have won 6 titles and Cerro Porteno have won 4.

Cerro Porteno have always been synonymous with glorious failure, while Olimpia sweep up the glory: Cerro Porteno have a great 28 league titles to their name. yet Olimpia eclipse that with 38; Olimpia boast 3 Copa Libertadores titles, Cerro Porteno boast the most amount of games of any team in that competition that has never won it. They have been beaten semi-finalists 5 times. Cerro Porteno seem to be the eternal bridesmaid – worse than that, they are the bridesmaid at the biggest wedding in Paraguay: the joining of Olimpia and glory. They can, however, be happy with their recent conveyor belt of talent including Geremi Njitap, Faryd Mondragon, Diego Gavilan, Carlos Gamarra, Edgar Barreto, and Franciso Arce. The club has certainly been blessed with some of the finest talent to play in Paraguay in recent years, and as they outscore Olimpia 4-1 on titles this decade perhaps they can dream of reclaiming some of that past glory.

Libertad has always been considered a traditionally solid club in Paraguayan football and when the club was relegated to division two in 1998 there were worries they may not return, although at that time the club had 8 previous league titles to its name the club had not won a championship since 1976.

Two years later however, a new president took over the club and they were promoted back to the first division. Two years later in 2002, they won the Paraguayan league title and repeated the same feat in 2003, 2006, 2007 and the Apertura and Closura double of 2008. The success of Libertad is astounding considering the desperation from which they emerged, and in these lean years for the Rosarina it is perhaps Libertad from our twin city we should look to emulate.

As I say: nothing groundbreaking, but a solid enough article and something that hopefully contains enough decent content to interest people as they graze at half time.

26/07/09

Today I am in Buenos Aires.

I’m starting to feel like a rock star: Montevideo last week, then a quick layover in Rosario where I did a couple of day work, before getting back on the jet and heading to famous Buenos Aires. Of course I’m not a rock star. I am effectively a leech, tagging along and absorbing some of the fame and attention of the real stars – the players, while trying to do a little bit of writing and generally justify my presence.

I may have thought it myself, but if the players and staff thought I was leech they weren’t letting on. Andres Franzoia treated me like an old friend, buying me a beer and asking how I was doing, and the rest of the players generally all acknowledged my presence as being welcome with a nod or a wave. Hell, even moody Gonzalo Choy said hello. I was glad I must have made a sufficiently good impression in Montevideo to make the players happy to have me around – something that makes my job easier if I have to occasionally interview them, and generally be around them as matches approach.

Our presence in Buenos Aires is due to the Chairman, Senor Horacio Usandizaga suggesting that David Bisconti get the players away from Rosario for a few days to relax and get the fitness up. It was a good idea; the interest in Rosario Central is massive from the press and from the ultra passionate fans and there is barely a day when the players don’t have giddy fans and autograph hunters surrounding them, then again they could equally be heckled, harassed and provoked by the same people. Its not that the press or fans want the players to fail, I guess it’s just that they see fear as a great motivator. You see it in Italian football with the Ultras, sometimes the constant presence of fans can be unnerving.

Unnerving was certainly the word for the attention Gonzalo Choy was receiving since it was announced he was leaving for Huesca: vandalised car, death threats spray painted on the training ground wall, petitions demanding he is dropped and sent to train with the reserves. Pretty vile stuff, but it shames me to say not uncommon in this part of the World. As a consequence - and to allow the players and staff a little time in a more relaxed environment - Chairman Usandizaga booked out around 30 rooms in the luxury Melia Buenos Aires Hotel, agreed to share the training ground of Second Division Sportivo Italiano for 5 days, and arranged friendly’s with Nueva Chicago and Ferro Carril Oeste.

It was an excellent gesture and idea by the Chairman. As the players settle in to the hotel before heading to modest training facilities of Sportivo Italiano they are relaxed and thoroughly enjoying the novelty of having a few days in Buenos Aires, away from the adulation, the intensity, and the prying eyes of Rosario.

From my point of view, I’m just delighted to have been given a free trip to Buenos Aires and be put up in 5* hotel! I have been here once, when I was 15, but have never found the time to come back, although I adored the place.

Buenos Aires in the second largest metropolitan area in South America yet doesn’t seem too intimidating or engulfing. This can perhaps be put down to the fact there is no shortage of natural beauty or cosmopolitan intrigue around every corner. Visitors may choose to visit a tango show, an estancia in the Province of Buenos Aires, or enjoy the traditional asado. New tourist circuits have recently evolved, devoted to famous Argentines such as Carlos Gardel, Eva Perón or Jorge Luis Borges. There are churches, museums, antique shops and "Antique Fairs" all with the spectacular backdrop of the stunning Rio de Plata River.

I mean, in a survey by the travel and tourism publication Travel + Leisure Magazine in 2008, travelers voted Buenos Aires the second most desirable city to visit after Florence, Italy. And here I was, being sent here on work. So as the players headed for the training ground I put on my best tourist face and headed exploring.

27/07/09

Nueva Chicago is effectively a non-league club in Argentina, but their stadium harks back to better days. Granted, they don’t exactly have a glistening history, and the historical trophy room is very much bare. But as recently as 2007 they were a Primera division club – then it happened: With Nueva Chicago losing in a relegation playoff with Tigre in 2007 violence broke out in the stadium, and carried on to the streets. A Tigre fan was killed, and as well as being relegated it was ordained Nueva Chicago had to start the next season with an 18 points deficit. It was something they couldn’t recover from and they were relegated again.

Yet the 28000 capacity Republica de Mataderos stands as a monument to the potential of this club to be a consistent Primera Division club. Although as the teams come out for this friendly the gaping gaps are resplendent with the olive green seats glistening in the afternoon sun. There cannot be more than 4000 fans here to watch the match I am reporting on:

Nueva Chicago vs. Rosario Central, Republica de Mataderos, Buenos Aires. Friendly. Att 3940

Rosario Central (4-1-2-1-2): Lupardo; Graff, Portillo, Burdisso, Aguirrez; Ambrosi; Astudillo, Mendez; Gomez; Franzoia, Cardetti.

Writes Jorge Goncalves

Despite suggesting that he wouldn’t be entertaining the thought of playing a traditional ‘number 10’ this season, David Bisconti set out his team to face Nueva Chicago in a formation with narrow diamond midfield, of which Jonatan Gomez was the head and very much playing the traditional ‘number 10’ role.

It didn’t take long for the merits of Jonatan Gomez in ‘the hole’ to become apparent. After 8 minutes the 19 year old found himself a lovely pocket of space beatween the Chicago defence and attack, and with time to turn he lifted his head and slotted Andres Franzoia through on goal. Had Chicago centre back Renato Russo not tugged Franzoia back in the area the little forward would surely have scored, and had this not been a friendly Russo would probably have walked for a professional foul. As it was: Russo stayed on, and Martin Astudillo stepped up and rattled a confident penalty past Chicago keeper Arturo Monllor.

The score could have been 2-0 just 7 minutes later when a long throw from Aguirrez was nodded across the face of goal by Martin Cardetti. Gomez can flying in at the back post but could only succeed in smashing his shot into the side netting.

Gomez was proving a nuisance and enjoying his attacking midfield role, and it was his shot that had to be tipped over after half an hour when he linked well with Mendez to allow himself a yards space on the edge of the box.

A shot which flashed wide from the busy Andres Franzoia represented the last meaningful effort of the first half, although it could be argued that the sight of him limping to the sidelines after hitting the shot was more meaningful than the shot itself. It would prove no surprise when Franzoia didn’t emerge for the second half – all Rosarina need to hope it is nothing serious.

Half time substitutions: Danelon for Aguirrez…Nunez for Graff…Chitzoff for Ambrosi…Ocampo for Gomez…Choy for Franzoia.

The second half began with a period of concerted pressure by Rosario Central. A corner from Danelon was only half cleared by the Chicago defence and Astudillo rattled a shot off the base of the post from the edge of the area. A matter of minutes later a header from Martin Cardetti after an excellent Gervasio Nunez cross grazed the bar on its way over.

One other notable aspect of this apparent tactical change from David Bisconti is that the fullbacks have much more license to roam. In the previous match versus River Plate (Uru) the fullbacks seemed somewhat restricted, with this new narrower diamond the flank is their oyster, so to speak. Ancelotti would be proud.

In truth Nunez and Danelon were doing a better job with this new freedom than Graff and Aguirrez did. Cardetti came close to getting on the end of another Nunez cross, and Alexis Danelon nearly scored after a neat interchange with Gonzalo Choy

74th minute substitution: Broun for Lupardo…Fassi for Astudillo.

Neuva Chicago had their only chance after 76 minutes when a curling effort from Lionel Martens flew narrowly over Jorge Broun’s bar. In all honesty that was the sum total of Nueva Chicago’s match.

You’ll be able to tell by some of the substitutions, eg Chitzoff for Ambrosi and Fassi for Astudillo, that there were a few players out of position, and to be honest the last 15 minutes of the game lost quite a bit of its shape. There was still time for an Ocampo shot to smack the bar and for Gonzalo Choy to have a goal harshly disallowed after it was adjudged he fouled the keeper.

Rosario Central should have won far more comfortably but in the end it was a decent workout, albeit against uninspired, un-ambitious opponents.

Nueva Chicago 0 – 1 Rosario Central (Astudillo pen ‘8)

MoM: Guillermo Burdisso 7.5

This is great, normally I shy away from stories told by characters other than the manager himself, but the way you have written this is superb and has got me hooked,

Thanks (Y)

This is great, normally I shy away from stories told by characters other than the manager himself, but the way you have written this is superb and has got me hooked,

Thanks (Y)

Very kind of you to say so WelshWolf, I appreciate it Hope you continue to enjoy the perspective and the story.

28/07/09

After a good performance against Nueva Chicago spirits were very high the next day on the training ground. I decided my role as press officer should probably include being around the squad and documenting the spirit etc when they are away in a training camp, so I decided to tag along and watch from the sidelines as the squad were put through their paces.

The first thing that is immediately noticeable is David Bisconti has an excellent man management style, there is not a minute goes by where he is not encouraging or chatting or having a laugh with a player. It succeeds in keeping everybody working hard, but also seems to succeed in keeping everybody very happy to be there.

The other thing I noticed – being the anorak I am – was that David Bisconti has certainly appeared to switch his tactical thinking towards a 4-1-2-1-2. I smiled at the thought he had deliberately used his first interview as manager (with me!) to throw off his rivals, and have them thinking he doesn’t believe in the ‘number 10’. Surely not, he’s too nice for that…isn’t he? The thought of David Bisconti being so Machiavellian made me very optimistic for the season ahead, perhaps he won’t get eaten alive. Then again, perhaps he just changed his mind.

Whatever the reasoning the squad were now training in such a way that would benefit this new system: two teams, both with a player in the hole were playing a practice match against each other, neither team seemed too determined to win, the purpose of the game seemed to be to get the ball to the ‘number 10’ – who was being tightly marked - and create a good chance from there. It appeared to be a lesson for the ‘number 10’s’ (Ocampo and Gomez) in finding space, and a challenge for everyone else to get the ball to them.

As I keep saying, I am something of an anorak, and I loved the experience of witnessing a coaches training methods first hand. Another interesting aspect was positional training. Bisconti has appeared to have set up several different training schedules based around what the player’s position is. For example Graff and the other fullbacks seemed to be working a lot on fitness, stamina, and defending; Astudillo and the central midfielders were working on passing, stamina, tactics; Cardetti and the strikers worked heavily on shooting and attacking; and so on.

I obviously don’t have any experience in coaching methods but David Bisconti seems to have created a good balance. The atmosphere is splendid, the players are working to a clear tactical plan, and players are receiving specific positional training which will surely only improve their game. The next few days will probably be much of a much-ness but such is the nature of pre-season I guess, the most important thing is that the players look enthusiastic and hungry for the beginning of the season.

29/07/09

Before heading to the training ground for another day of spying, chatting to players, and generally trying to seem like I’m doing work, I headed to the lobby of the hotel to check my e-mails. I had received one from a chap I can only assume works within the marketing department of Rosario Central, and he was good enough to inform me about the progress of season ticket sales:

Jorge,

As of today I am happy to announce we have sold 11,798 season tickets for the upcoming season. Judging by previous years and the interest we are experiencing thus far, we expect to sell another 1200, brining the total to around 13,000 by the time the beginning of the season comes around.

Kind Regards,

Alexis Cerezo

As I say, I can only assume Alexis is from the marketing department, as I have never been introduced to him, or been in any way made aware of his existence. I also wasn’t really sure what he wanted me to do with that information. Marketing wasn’t really within my remit. So I forwarded it on to Sebastian Tries with instructions to add the information to the Ticket Sales page of the website in the hope of generating some extra sales.

At the training ground the situation was much the same as yesterday: fitness work, tactical training, and training regimes by position. One thing struck me as odd though. Jorge Broun, the Central number 1 and vice captain was exceedingly quiet during the training session. Now, for a sense of perspective let me tell you Jorge Broun is very, very talented – but boy does he know it, and from what I’ve seen he spends training sessions strutting like a peacock challenging strikers to score penalties past him. As I said, today was different, The Ego was in his shell.

I am a very young journalist, but I like to think I have decent instinct – I hope so anyway, because instincts are vital in this game, and I decided that something must be afoot and as the club press officer it was my duty to investigate. Granted, I hadn’t got to know Jorge Broun as well as say Franzoia, Ambrosi or Bisconti, but I decided that I would bite the bullet and approach him.

“Some performance as usual Jorgey Broun!” I lied, he had been distinctly off colour.

“I was ****.” He replied solemnly. I should have realised footballers always know when they have been poor, they are usually their own worst critics.

“Can I have a word?” I asked gently.

“You’ll have to make it quick, we’ve only got a 10 minute turn around before the next session.” Came the abrupt answer.

“You don’t look yourself mate, and I was wondering if there was anything wrong?”

Jorge Broun laughed ruefully, before eyeing me up suspiciously: “You’re that Goncalves kid, yeah?”, he waited for me to nod before continuing, “Andres [Franzoia] and Paul [Ambrosi] were talking about you. Said you were a good guy to have around, and a real Rosarina.”

I sensed he wasn’t quite finished so I let him continue: “….and you’re a psychiatrist too?”

“Of course not, I just thought…” I stuttered.

“Listen kid, I don’t have a terminal disease, my wife hasn’t left me. I’m okay.” He sighed, “If you must know I was told today that the club were considering a £2,000,000 offer from Tigre for me, and I’m caught wondering whether I want to go and what I would think if the club wanted to sell me – also why is it Tigre that want me? I could be Boca number 1.” The last comment was Jorge Broun back to normal.

With a shake of his head Broun wandered back to the training pitch to do some stretching. I couldn’t believe Central were considering selling him. £2,000,000 is an absolute pittance, when clubs in Europe get a sniff of his talent they will surely blow that valuation out the water.

The RingMaster,

This is really top notch writing, you've got me hooked!

Keep up the good work, you seem to have put in loads of effort so far. Fair play to you.

Looking forward to the next installment

The RingMaster,

This is really top notch writing, you've got me hooked!

Keep up the good work, you seem to have put in loads of effort so far. Fair play to you.

Looking forward to the next installment

Thanks for the kind words Enj. I'm actually quite enjoying writing this at the moment, so I cant say it feels like too much work I just hope you continue to enjoy reading!

01/08/09

Despite the fact the club were supposedly considering an offer for him, Jorge Broun started in goals for Rosario Central in the second, and final, match of the stay in Buenos Aires. Indeed, it seemed as if Bisconti picked what is arguably his strongest possible starting eleven.

Ferro were the opponents. Ferro are a second division club and have little bit of prestige about their little club. Current Georgia (and former Valencia and Internazionale) manager Hector Cuper spent most of his career there, and more recently German Burgos and Roberto Ayala called Ferro home. Between 1981 and 1984 the club were consistently challenging for the Primera division crown, winning it twice in that spell. They have now settled in to being a comfortably mid-table second division outfit – although the presence of 3-times capped former Basel forward Cesar Carignano up front should serve as an indication that there is quality in their ranks:

Ferro vs. Rosario Central, Arq. Ricardo Etcheverri, Buenos Aires. Friendly. Att: 2685

Rosario Central (4-1-2-1-2): Broun; Graff, Portillo, Burdisso, Danelon; Ambrosi; Astudillo, Mendez ©; Gomez; Franzoia, Cardetti.

Writes Jorge Goncalves

The conditions weren’t conducive to good football is Buenos Aires today, and gusty wind and heavy drizzle made playing conditions exceedingly difficult, and it was notable that both side struggled to get into any kind of rhythm early on.

After scoring within the first 10 minutes against Nueva Chicago David Bisconti will have been looking for more of the same from his team in this one, and despite the atrocious playing conditions his players managed to deliver exactly that. After 8 minutes Alexis Danelon marauded up the right wing before slipping the ball to Andres Franzoia on the edge of the area, Franzoia showed outstanding vision to back heel the ball into the path of Jonatan Gomez who plundered the ball home from the penalty spot. It was a goal of supreme quality and utterly amazing given the treacherous conditions.

Ferro at least showed a little more fighting spirit than Nueva Chicago and put together a string of corners following Jonatan Gomez’s opener. The third and final corner of the spell culminated in a scrambled shot by Cesar Carignano being tipped wide by Jorge Broun after some indecisive defending in the Central box.

That spell of pressure was a false dawn for Ferro, and by the 20 minute mark they were 2-0 down, and for all the first goal was intricate and beautiful, the second was direct and powerful. Jorge Broun punted a long ball forward aiming for Cardetti, Martin Cardetti did wonderfully to head the ball into the path of Jesus Mendez and the Rosario Central captain smashed a stunning drive from 25 yards out flying into the top corner. Football is such an easy game sometimes.

Cardetti was causing the Ferro defence all sorts of problems, and it could have been 3-0 when he laid the ball back to Andres Franzoia on the edge of the box, only for Franzoia’s drive to be parried wide by Ferro keeper Fernando Pellegrini. Cardetti had a chance himself late in the half when he headed a Graff cross just over the bar from the penalty spot.

Half time substitutions: Chitzoff for Danelon…Ocampo for Astudillo

It took a good ten minutes for the second half to really spring to life, and when it did it was in controversial circumstances. With the clock striking 55 minutes Cesar Carignano whipped in a devilish cross to the back post for Maximilliano Castano to head home – only for the goal to be disallowed for offside. It was touch and go, but going by the logic of ‘attacker gets the benefit of the doubt’ Ferro can perhaps feel hard done by.

As if to compound a sense of injustice Rosario Central made it 3-0 a minute later – with a penalty. Ocampo set Graff free down the left and he floated a high cross in, and as Cardetti was rising to nod home he was barged in the back. It was a stonewall penalty, but that’s not to stop Ferro feeling like the whole World was against them. Agustin Rezzano was booked for the foul, and Ramon Ocampo slotted the ball to the keepers right. 3-0.

Somewhat understandably Ferro wilted at this point, and the game threatened to be a rout: Within 15 minutes of the goal Cardetti thrashed the ball against the underside of the bar when clean through, Franzoia sclaffed a shot wide from the edge of the box, and Jesus Mendez hit the post with a sumptuous free kick.

73rd minute substitutions: Choy for Cardetti…Nunez for Graff…Monesterolo for Gomez (Franzoia moves back in to ‘the hole’, and Monesterolo goes up top with Choy)

The match faded out with a series of corners, scrappy fouls and bad passing and there was no real goalmouth action to speak of in the last 15 minutes, although that wont take away from an excellent work out from Rosario Central.

Ferro 0 – 3 Rosario Central (Gomez 8', Mendez 20', Ocampo pen 56')

MoM: Jesus Mendez 8.1

03/08/09

“So, in the end I didn’t even have a decision to make. Apparently I am indispensable and integral to the future of the football club.” Jorge Broun was saying with a somewhat self satisfied smile.

I guess quite a few people must have the same opinion of Rosario number one Jorge Broun as I do: egotistical, arrogant, very talented, because apparently nobody else asked him how he was that day in the Buenos Aires training camp when he was moping around like an injured puppy whereas I did. I can only assume he was secretly appreciative of the gesture as he has been very friendly with me on the flight back to Rosario, and we are now chatting away like old friends as we approach our destination.

The topic of conversation is exactly the same as it was that day at the training camp: Tigre’s offer for him, but he is much chirpier having been told the club wouldn’t be accepting the offer. Considering Rosario Central are not a rich club turning down a £2,000,000 offer for any player is a huge compliment. And there is nothing Jorge Broun likes more than a compliment.

“But what if they had accepted, would you have moved to Tigre?” I was curious.

“Probably not,” he answered, sipping on his whisky and coke, “I want to see how well Bisconti does. If he has a successful season and I’m not exposed then I’m good enough for Boca or River. I could easily be Argentina number one. Look at Sergio Romero: 5 games for Racing Club and he flukes a move to Europe, and because he plays for some team called Alkamak he’s the countries number one. No, I’ll stay here, and it’ll be my launch pad.”

I couldn’t help but chuckle. The crazy thing was he was probably right. Not about Romero; he’s a top keeper and AZ Alkmaar are a good club, but about his own potential.

“What are you laughing at?” He glared.

“Nothing brother. You are as mad as a hatter and completely over confident and self absorbed: everything you need to be World class keeper.” I laughed.

I managed to bring a smile to his face with that, for all I know he only heard ‘you’ and ‘World class’. Ego’s usually spawn selective hearing.

“Listen…” Jorge Broun stopped me in my tracks as I was getting ready to leave him, “…just, well…thanks.”

With a friendly pat on the back I headed for my own seat to buckle up for the landing.

05/08/09

Beeeeeeeeep: You. Have. One. New. Message.

That was odd. Granted I get lots and lots of phone calls every day from various press sources as well as people within the club, but if my phone rings out there is an automated service which redirects the caller to someone else that can help with their enquiry. The fact somebody left a message means they decided to forego redirection and wanted to specifically talk to me. Considering I was so low in the food chain that seemed surprising. It made sense when I pushed ‘play’:

“Jorge, this is Juan Calvano. I hope you enjoyed Buenos Aires, now that you are back we have work to do. I want you to do me a favour and send out a press release informing the press of a news conference tomorrow morning to announce the capture of three new signings. You do not need to tell them who the signings are…”

’That’s a relief, as no-one has told me’, I thought.

“…just make sure the word gets out and we have a decent amount of sources their tomorrow. Also you’re doing an interview with Martin Cardetti. I’m in Cordoba at the moment with our marketing director trying to tie up a few sponsorship deals for the coming season, but I’ll be back for the news conference. Drop Angel a line too, just in case we need another pair of hands.” The line went dead and the message ended.

Exciting stuff, three new signings to the club. I was a little annoyed nobody mentioned it to me when we were in – or on the way back from – Buenos Aires, but as I say I guess I’m not high enough on the food chain. Or perhaps I’ve just not got the instincts to sniff out a story even when I’m that close to the protagonists. Anyway, I stopped beating myself long enough to punch out the press release:

For immediate distribution to all media sources in our database:

Notice of news conference.

Time: 11:00

Location: Omar Palma Hall, Estadio Gigante de Arroyito, Rosario

Purpose: Announcement of new signings

Club Atletico Rosario Central would like to announce a news conference for tomorrow morning [06/08/09] at 11:00 to announce the signing of three players to contracts at the football club.

All three new players will be present at the news conference alongside Rosario Central manager David Bisconti. After an initial statement all four men will be available for a few questions from the assembled press.

Manager David Bisconti will be available for a short period afterwards for a private session with members of the written press, whilst this is going on media photographers are invited to a photo shoot with the three players at the pitch side of the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito.

Please bring official identification and proof of employment within one of our trusted media sources in order to gain access to this news conference.

Once that was sent out I must admit my mind began to wander again. I would be interviewing Martin Cardetti tomorrow. Granted, I had been at the same table as him in Montevideo, but we hadn’t really talked – or even made eye contact really. Nevertheless he was a great striker with fantastic pedigree and it would be an honour to interview him.

It is actually exciting on two levels. One: I’m getting to interview him, two: it presumably means he has impressed enough to get signed, as it would be a tad cruel to organise an interview with him after a news conference to announce three signings when he isn’t one of them. Although he hasn’t had the best couple of years I think it will be a great signing, he is one of those players who just knows where the goal is, and when he’s back at Rosario, a club where he feels comfortable, I think he’ll be a smash.

Angel. Oh yes, before I forget, I must e-mail our cherub faced extra pair of hands:

To: rosarisaangelo007@hotmail.ar

From: j.goncalves@rosariocentral.ar

Subject: News conference tomorrow morning

Hi Angelo,

I hope this finds you well. We have a little more work for you if you are still keen for the experience. Tomorrow morning at 11:00 there will be a news conference at the stadium and we are hoping you would come in and help out. A little more experience for you, and an extra pair of hands for us.

If you would like to come in then arrive at the stadium at 10:00 in your suit and we’ll go through what we are looking for from you.

Kind Regards,

Jorge Goncalves

Media officer, C.A. Rosario Central

06/08/09

Let me tell you a magical thing about new conferences: they are the one occasion where the normal hierarchy of a professional football club is thrown completely out of the window. The manager is helpless, the chairman is an irrelevancy, and the players are peripheral. Complete control of this situation is placed in the hands of the press department. Juan Calvano decides when the conference starts, he decides where people sit, he decides how many questions people are allowed, he decides when everybody has to pack up and go home – even if Horacio Usandizaga himself wanted to announce he had cured cancer live on television, Juan Calvano has the power to say ‘times up, everybody leave’.

Today’s news conference is no different; the players who will be appearing, the manager, and all the press are slaves to Senor Calvano’s itinerary:

• 11:00: Statement from David Bisconti

[*]11:05: Brief media questions

[*]11:20: Written press exclusive questions session

[*]11:20: Photographers to pitch side for photo shoot.

[*]11:30-Noon: Omar Palma hall remains open, with available WiFi in order to file copy.

[*]Noon: Omar Palma hall is closed, everybody is required to leave

“What’s he waiting for?” Angel asked me, nodding towards Juan Calvano, who was standing staring in to space. The players and manager were sitting at the table under the full glare of the assembled press, and the whole room had a ghostly quiet aura as everyone waited for things to get under way.

“Waiiiiiiit for it….” I said, smiling at Angel and motioning towards the old fashioned clock that adorns the wall of the Omar Palma hall. It was 10:59 and 30 seconds. I waited for the seconds hand to hit 11 and began to countdown to Angel, “5…4…3…2…1”

“Welcome, ladies and gentlemen of the press….” Calvano began, as Angel laughed.

“I swear that man must have been a station master in a previous life.” I said, with a hint of admiration in my voice. “C’mon,” I motioned to Angel, “Let’s take our seats”.

Juan Calvano had just finished his introductory spiel, and had handed the reigns over to David Bisconti. Today’s news conference had certainly succeeded in drawing the crowd Juan Calvano wished for. As Bisconti cleared his throat he was preparing to speak to an utterly packed room of journalists with a fair bit of pedigree. The classically beautiful but prickly Maria Gonzalez from El Ciudadano, Ariel Ortiz from La Capital, and Julio Debar from Rosario 12 were all back again, having attended David Bisconti’s inaugural news conference a couple of weeks ago. There was also a fair amount of interest from television, with the four men at the table under constant spotlight. If I’m not mistaken I even seen a camera bearing the logo of a Buenos Aires based national television station. I dare say the anticipated presence of a Senor Cardetti sparked much of this interest.

All of this was great, it suggests there is a real appetite for Rosario Central news – which it is my job to provide, however the presence of one media source made me nervous. Diego Cremonese was again present, and was already glaring at David Bisconti as if he was trying to bore a hole through him. El Eslabon is a big daily newspaper, with several very talented reporters to do the ground work, there is really no reason for their sports editor to be attending press conferences, yet here he was again.

“Good morning,” Bisconti began, “It is a pleasure to see so many of you here. I hope it means you are as excited as I am about the prospect of welcoming three new players to this famous football club. We have a very talented squad at this football club, but at Rosario Central we never rest on our laurels and will always look to bring in quality footballers whenever they become available. I firmly believe the three men that sit alongside me fall into that category and think they will be fantastic additions.”

“Wow, that was good.” I whispered to Juan Calvano, as he joined me and Angel towards the back of the hall.

“Of course it was good.” He grinned. “I wrote it!” Needless to say Juan Calvano was in his element today. His new role is titled ‘Media Relations Executive’, but you can see he is a man who is made for working ‘in the trenches’ as it were: liaising and manipulating journalists on a daily basis.

“…I would firstly like to introduce a very talented player, who may be the least known face to many of you guys. His name is Francisco Adailton Andrade de Farias…but you can call him Rabico. I am delighted to have secured his signature, as he is a very technically gifted midfielder who can play on the right or in the centre. With experience of top flight football in Brazil and Sweden I have no doubt he is equipped to handle our Primera with aplomb.”

A couple of flashbulbs went off and Rabico smiled. Granted, there isn’t a million miles between Portuguese and Spanish, but I couldn’t help but wonder exactly how much of his introduction he actually understood.

David Bisconti waited for the cameras’ to cease flashing before continuing: “Beside Rabico you will see our exciting new central defender Miguel Portillo. As many of you will already know we have had several trialists with us over the last while, and Miguel is one of them. I am delighted to say he has impressed us sufficiently to be offered a 3 year contract with the football club. Miguel will bring a good blend of experience and pace to our backline, and I look forward to seeing him perform this season.” Bisconti looked across and smiled at Portillo.

Again there was a brief symphony of flashing camera. However, you got the feeling this was just a prelude to the main event, and the interest would really kick in as Bisconti got to the ‘marquee’ signing.

Bisconti smiled at the press, obviously amused at the sense of anticipation he was creating: “…and directly alongside me you may recognise a chap called Martin Cardetti,” immediately the four men were illuminated in a haze of camera flashes, and keen journalists jumping the gun, shouting their questions already.

Bisconti simply calmly continued: “Martin has shown the dedication and desire that we require from him. His talent has never been in doubt, and I am quite sure that his signing with be a fantastic coup for this club, and I can’t wait for him to get out there and start scoring for Los Canallas again.” David Bisconti let his words hang before continuing, “If anyone has any questions for any of us then go ahead.”

I’ll be totally honest with you: at this point Rabico and Miguel Portillo would have been just as well leaving, as – without wishing to sound cruel – nobody was in the slightest bit interested in them, the press were only interested in Cardetti. It was like Megan Fox was beside The Proclaimers.

What made you come back?

Can you still score goals at this level?

How will the fans treat you after the spell with Colon last season?

Will you fit into the style Bisconti plays?

Are you the man for the big occasion only, or will you play every week?

So it went on and on. Cardetti handled the questions with a charm and diplomacy that would have seen Kofi Anann go green with envy. The general message was that Martin Cardetti is fit, determined, and as good as ever and will be a major player in the project David Bisconti is building.

David Bisconti wasn’t spared a few questions:

What made you sign Martin?

How will it affect the way your team plays?

Does it not worry you that he was a free agent, surely there was a reason why nobody wanted him?

Bisconti didn’t bite and stayed ‘on message’ with a smile, simply re-iterating that Martin Cardetti was a great coup and he was delighted to have him here. Although he did jab back at the question about him being a free transfer and nobody wanting him, respectfully telling the chap that Catania and Livorno both made offers but he chose Rosario Central instead.

I must confess, I was very impressed with how the news conference had gone thus far. The signings had been presented expertly, and with a real sense of optimism. The journalists’ questions had been answered politely and concisely regardless of where they were trying to lead, it was a good day’s work.

Then Diego Cremonese stood up to ask a question.

Good stuff, RingMaster, I too am enjoying the perspective of the story, it is refreshing. Also, I gotta love it as a big fan of Latin American football. KUTGW.

I really enjoy reading this story and hope you keep it going for a long while, but I can't help but wondering where your friend from reception has gone

Thanks so much for the comments bingitz and el Chuese. Yes bingitz I'm a fan of Latin American football myself - particularly the way you get 2 championships in one year, double the chance to succeed/fail . Glad you are enjoying the viewpoint and story. I assure you Eva will be making an appearance very soon el Chuese, but first I have a p*ssed off journalist back-story to introduce .

I really hope you continue to read and enjoy

06/08/09

They say when you are involved in a car crash everything slows down to a crawl, and you experience it in slow motion. Well, I wish this incident had happened in slow motion as it would have given me time to run across the Omar Palma Hall and rugby tackle Cremonese’s angular frame to the ground before he opened his hateful mouth.

“Senor Bisconti,” he started, with more than a hint of sarcasm inflexed on the ‘Senor’, “Martin Cardetti is another 33 year old, you have already signed Patricio Graff who is another old-timer. Is it not true you are already completely out your depth and clutching at idiotic straws as you try to cobble together a football team?”

The entire room fell deathly silent, before there was a sharp intake of breath as we all realised he wasn’t finished yet: “….Do you realise Graff and Cardetti played in the same Rosario team in 1995. That’s 14 years ago, and you expect people to gobble up the spin that these are good signings?! Can we have the punchline to this joke now Senor.

I have seen Juan Calvano nervous, apoplectic with rage, and flustered; I have never seen him speechless until now. The entire room was shell shocked. Most people couldn’t believe such an outburst could come from such a respected journalist. Even if he had a point with his age barb – it was said with such venom. Nobody expected the calm, charming David Bisconti to rise to the bait.

“Listen, you bitter weasel, how can you come here and talk to me like that?! I have done nothing to deserve a vendetta against me. If this is how you will act then you can get the f*ck out my football club.” The normally placid Bisconti exploded, leaping to his feet.

This eruption snapped Juan Calvano in to life: “Right, this news conference is over.” He shouted, quickly dashing towards David Bisconti and the players, ushering them into the next room. The players looked completely dumbstruck – especially poor Rabico, for whom this furious pantomime was being played out in a different language.

As Juan Calvano was dealing with David Bisconti I decided to man up and deal with the other main player in this drama.

“What the hell was that?!” I barked at Diego Cremonese, trying my best to be intimidating. The fact he laughed at me suggested I failed.

“Listen son, this doesn’t concern you. Let the adults sort this out.” He smirked at me.

At this point I completely forgot about the fact Diego Cremonese was 6’1, built like a wombat, and one of the most important men in the media in Rosario – I was ready punch him square in his smug face.

“Just who the f…”

“Jorge!!” Came the roared interruption from across the room. It was Juan Calvano, “you get in here as well.” He ordered, motioning to the room where he had ushered the players to.

I gritted my teeth together in order to stop myself from launching in to a foul mouthed tirade, and clenched my fists to try and quell the urge to perform alternative dental work on Diego Cremonese: “Yes Juan.” I simply said, smiling at Diego Cremonese as I left.

“You get in there and interview Cardetti like we agreed,” Juan Calvano started as I approached him, “we need to salvage some semblance of normality from today. I’ll deal with the the press diplomatically.”

As I walked into the private room next door to the Omar Palma hall to interview Rosario Central’s new star striker I heard Juan Calvano’s voice bellow from whence I had came: “The photo shoot is off! There will be no written press interview with David Bisconti! And you can find somewhere else to file your copy from! All of you get out, and don’t come back until you realise that without us nobody would be interested in your rags you animals!”

Nice Juan, real diplomatic.

06/08/09

Below is a transcript of the first official interview with Martin Cardetti since his return to Rosario Central for www.rosariocentral.ar, carried out by Jorge Goncalves.

JG: Hi Martin. On behalf of all Rosario Central fans, let me welcome you back to your real football home.

MC: God, I can see this will be a hard hitting interview!

*Both laugh*

JG: Judging by today’s news conference I think there are external journalists who will provide that amigo! In all seriousness, can you sum up your feelings as you prepare to embark on your second spell at Los Canallas?

MC: I am extremely excited, and although it shames me to say – I have not been excited by football for a long time. I was top scorer in Argentina twice with River Plate, I have played for some massive clubs around the World, and I had a 1:3 goal ratio at Paris Saint-Germain. It is hard to keep working hard when you have arguably achieved all that you are going to in your career. I must confess over the last few years I have struggled to retain the fire.

JG: Was that the problem last year with our Santa Fe…..neighbours, Colon?

MC: There were many problems at Colon. I struggled for fitness and form, and only played 7 matches in the whole season. Towards the end I had the feeling the staff had lost faith in my qualities.

JG: Has that experience damaged you?

MC: You are always learning as a footballer. I wouldn’t say the experience has damaged me; it has acted as a learning curve. Perhaps I expected too much at Colon – perhaps I thought due to my reputation I wouldn’t have to work as hard and my form would just come. I now know that I have to work even harder if anything at this stage in my career.

JG: So Rosario Central has the benefit of a determined, ultra hard-working Martin Cardetti this season?

MC: I certainly hope so. I feel like I have something to prove to all the people who have written me off. Even today a journalist suggested I was too old in that news conference. I have total faith in my ability to score goals at a high level, and I now have a renewed determination to show I still have the desire to compete at the highest level.

JG: Can I ask what your thoughts are with regards to the quality of Rosario Central’s squad this season after spending time on trial with them, and also how it compares with the Rosario Central team you first played with in the mid-90’s?

MC: Youthful is the word that initially springs to mind. I consider myself to be quite fit as this season begins, but some of these boys have absolutely ran rings round me; I have never seen so many 18-23 year old whippets in one squad! It will make for a very exciting season at Rosario Central, and I hope my knowledge and experience – as well as the likes of Patricio Graff and Martin Astudillo – can help cut out any mistakes that inexperience usually brings.

JG: With that in mind, what can the Rosarina expect from the team this season?

MC: Excitement and effervescent football. There will be mistakes along the way, which is inevitable. I am 33 and am still learning, so a 20 year old centre-back or a 19 year old attacking midfielder will of course have errors along the way – but for the most part we have a really exciting team.

JG: Care to stick your neck out and predict and final league position?

MC: No.

*Both laugh*

JG: You have been signed by David Bisconti, who is – of course – a fairly recent appointment as manager. As a player who has worked under many managers, has he got what it takes?

MC: ‘What it takes’ is a relative term. I have worked under managers who stripped the paint off the walls with their team talks and were successful, and I have worked with managers who quietly put their point across with a focus on tactics and strategy and were successful too. So there is no way to guess whether a manager will be a success by just observing their methods. What I can say is that I am enjoying working under him. He is a very intelligent coach who articulates his points well, and has a belief in attacking football. With a little luck he certainly should be a successful boss.

JG: And what would success entail for this season?

MC: Making our fans enjoy coming to watch Rosario Central, and having a few good results along the way.

JG: And what would success entail for you personally?

MC: I want to work hard and perform to the best of my capabilities. Also, strikers do tend to set targets, and I must confess I will be disappointed if I don’t reach double figures.

JG: Well I wish you good luck with that. Thank for your time.

MC: Pleasure, Jorge.

07/08/09

With just one day to go before the first home match (albeit a friendly) of David Bisconti’s reign, and having just completed the signing of three new players there should really be an air of optimism and excitement around the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito today. Yet people are walking about like zombies, still flabbergasted by the events that transpired in yesterday mornings news conference.

In normal circumstances that news conference would have made the back pages of only the regional Santa Fe newspapers and would have been a footnote in the Nationals, and it would perhaps have got 30 seconds of summarising in the 1AM news bulletin. Instead I woke up to find the highlights of David Bisconti – red faced and incredulous - going berserk at that weasel, Diego Cremonese on the morning news report of ESPN Deportes.

A trip to the news stand told me that the events of the news conference have made the front and back pages of all the newspapers – regional and national alike – and the sandwich board outside screamed: “Bisconti goes loco”. No mention of the fact he was completely baited and provoked. As much as I wanted to simply ignore the mud that was being slung I decided it was probably a big part of my job to know what the media are saying about Rosario Central and Rosario Central personnel. I purchased El Eslabon, the very popular Santa Fe daily – of which Diego Cremonese is the sports editor – and headed to work to digest it.

After sitting at my desk and reading Diego Cremonese’s entire two-page feature/hatchet job on David Bisconti getting gradually more and more agitated and defensive towards Bisconti, who had been very good to me. I circled a couple of particularly distasteful passages and decided there was nothing else for it: I had to go and talk to Juan Calvano. There has to be a reason for the clear hatred between Cremonese and Bisconti, and if anyone would know the whole story it was Senor Calvano.

“What is going on Juan?” I had walked into Juan Calvano’s office unannounced and got straight to the point, I hoped that showed I meant business.

“Pardon?” He simply replied, playing dumb.

“Between Senor Bisconti and la rata [the rat] Cremonese?!” I demanded.

“You seem a little wound up today, Jorge. You have work to be getting on with, perhaps you should go and write up the player profiles for Martin, Miguel and Rabico, yes?” He gestured towards the door dismissively.

I was clearly being brushed off: “Juan,” I breathed deeply, “you cannot expect me to work as a press officer if my superior keeps information about the clubs manager and one of the most important men in the local media. I am working with my hands tied behind my back if you do not tell me what situation I am in the middle of!” I demanded.

“You are reading too much into a simple argument between two passionate men Jorge, there is nothing deeper.” He said reassuringly, clearly believing me to be an idiot.

“Stop it Juan!!” I roared. “Are you trying to tell me this is the f*cking work of a man who doesn’t have a score to settle?!” With that outburst I threw my copy of El Eslabon on to Calvano’s desk. He began to read the circled passages:

El Eslabon, 07/08/09, back page continued in leaf:

Berserk Bisconti loses respect, his temper….and probably his job

By El Eslabon sports editor Diego Cremonese

David Bisconti yesterday vindicated the opinion of all those who have suggested he is too inexperienced and not good enough to manage a club the stature of Rosario Central by launching into a foul mouth tirade after being asked a couple of innocuous questions……..

…….Bisconti has already shown his complete incompetence in his short tenure at the football club by brining in veteran players who are clearly over the hill and not good enough to play Primera Division football any more. Colon must be laughing their heads off as Bisconti claims Martin Cardetti as Central’s saviour……

…..My sources at the football club have intimated that David Bisconti’s coat is already on a shaky peg, and they have quickly realised the folly of their slapdash appointment and will look to rectify what could be a costly mistake if Bisconti is allowed to continue……

…….Rosario Central are the most famous and prestigious club in Santa Fe, and as El Eslabon is the newspaper that represents the people of Santa Fe we must call on all our readers to make their feelings known that David Bisconti is not the right man to lead Rosario Central……

Have you had an encounter with the irate David Bisconti? If so, El Eslabon may be willing to pay for your story. Simply call: ***********

Juan Calvano was reading with a rueful smile. I waited until his eyes stopped skimming and finally locked on me: “Now Juan,” I began, “I have never read anything quite like that in my life. It is full of hyperbole, innuendo, and downright lies. I have read less partisan deconstructions of Rosario Central staff in the Newell Old Boy’s fanzine. So, please, I beg you, tell me what’s going on – because this man clearly wants a media war, and you’re sending me in to the trenches blind.”

Juan Calvano lit a Havana especial 12 años and inhaled deeply. He wore the expression of a man resigned to imparting information he would much rather keep to himself.

“Firstly,” He began, “sit down.”

I realised I was still standing. I had got myself so enraged and excitable that I hadn’t yet sat down in Juan’s office.

“No, I’m fine.” I replied sternly. We had learned at University that when carrying out an interview being in a standing position give you a sub-conscious psychological advantage over your subject – and I wanted Juan Calvano I would not be brushed off or intimidated.

“SIT DOWN!” He roared, banging his fist on the table, and causing a flicker of ash to escape the end of his cigar.

I sat down immediately.

“You are, of course, aware that David Bisconti used to be a professional player here at Rosario Central.” Senor Calvano began, obviously wanting to pad out before getting to the point, “In the pre-season of 1988 Rosario Central travelled to play a pre-season friendly against a very small team on the outskirts of Santa Fe, called Independiente de Bigand.”

“I know them. Angel Tulio Zof used to manage them.” I chipped in sternly. Senor Calvano looked impressed by my knowledge, but Angel Tulio Zof, El Viejo [the old one], was responsible for Rosario Central’s last Championship triumph. Any self respecting rosarina has an encyclopaedic knowledge of El Viejo.

“Well anyway,” He continued, “When Rosario Central travel to small provincial Santa Fe clubs their players always see it as a do-or-die opportunity to propel themselves into the big time and play the game as passionately and viciously as a Copa Libertadores final.”

He took a deep draw, as if inhaling courage to get to the unsavoury point.

“David Bisconti was no coward either.” He said, “So when these provincial teams wanted a real competitive battle, he gave it to them. In this particular match – wit 20 minutes gone – Bisconti was played clean through on goal, but the pass was a little heavy. Any other player would have given up on it – it was a friendly after all – but not David, he chased the ball down, and his pace meant that the race between him and the goalkeeper was a 50-50 sprint, with neither man giving an inch. David Bisconti and the goalkeeper absolutely crashed into each other in a tangled mass of limbs.” Calvano winced as if remembering the incident vividly.

“It took a moment before everybody realised how serious the incident was. The flow of blood was horrific.” Calvano winced again, and took a draw on his cigar. “You have to remember, Jorge, this is a time when men were men, and when boots were boots – with real, dangerous metal studs. David Bisconti’s studs had caught the goalkeeper at such an angel and velocity that he had actually pierced the back of the goalkeepers leg – severing his posterior tibial artery.”

“Bisconti was distraught after the game, and he gave the goalkeeper all the support in the World – both moral and financial – in the aftermath, and although the wound eventually healed, his football career was over forever. And he was generally considered a promising keeper too.”

I would later do a search out of curiosity, and gather that the posterior tibial artery was a main vessel in the lower leg that carries blood to the foot and knee areas. However at the time I was just slightly nauseated by the idea of a football boot slicing through an artery.

I managed to suppress my horror and disgust enough to calmly ask a question: “I don’t mean to be rude Juan, but what has all this got to do with Diego Cremonese having a vendetta against David Bisconti?” I asked.

Juan Calvano simply laughed and blew a thin cloud of cigar smoke my way: “You’re no ‘Columbo’ are you Jorge,” he derided, “that goalkeeper was Diego Cremonese.”

07/08/09

Juan Calvano had proceeded to further pad out the story. Apparently David Bisconti has forked out enough money to cover all of Diego Cremonese’s medical bills, and had visited him over a dozen times as he recovered from the gruesome injury. None of these gestures were ever met with anything more than a lukewarm gesture of acknowledgement, Diego Cremonese – it seemed – was simply not willing to forgive and forget.

You have to be conscious that over the years Chinese whispers can exaggerate the facts of a story like this, but Juan Calvano intimated to me that there were scouts from Union of Santa Fe and Gimnasia of La Plata at the match specifically to watch this new promising goalkeeper, Diego Cremonese. Legend says that as soon as David Bisconti sliced through Diego’s leg the scouts upped and left immediately, taking with them and hopes the young goalkeeper would ever have of playing top level football.

After recovering from his injury he joined the local newspaper and quickly established himself as a journalist with an eye for witty, incisive prose. After a few years he joined El Eslabon as a junior sports reporter, and the rest – as they say – is history. It is an oft-repeated sports journalism mantra that ‘those who cannot do, write’ and Diego Cremonese is obviously still a very bitter man because of the clash with David Bisconti which meant he cannot do.

It seems a little petty to me. After all, Diego Cremonese is generally considered the most talented journalist in Rosario. He is only just in his 40’s but is expected to become Editor-in-Chief when the current incumbent steps down, which will make him the youngest editor of El Eslabon ever. If anything he should be grateful to David Bisconti for forcing him to go and find what his true calling is. Nevertheless, if I really force myself to become as bitter and twisted as Cremonese and put myself in his shoes I guess I can kind of understand his grudge. What I didn’t understand was David Bisconti’s reaction. Why had he erupted with rage? Surely he should have realised Cremonese was just a bitter, sad ex-footballer and smiled and ignored hi jabs. Why had he reacted?

Juan Calvano had an answer for that too. Juan Calvano had made a couple of call around various papers and news sources in Rosario to see if he could garner any extra information regarding David and Diego. After a few dead-ends he finally got through to Maria Gonzalez at El Cuidadano who could oblige: “Well, Juan,” she said, “Diego Cremonese got wind of the potential appointment of David Bisconti before anyone else. He then immediately tried to canvass opinion against him amongst the press and even within Rosario Central. I heard he had a meeting with Horacio Usandizaga and threw a load of dirt David Bisconti’s way – trying to convince him not to appoint him.”

The strangest thing about this tale was the final incident which meant a confrontation was always inevitable, a couple of days ago Horacio Usandizaga called David Bisconti into his office and told him about Diego Cremonese’s crusade to make sure he would not be appointed manager of Rosario Central. It was supposed to just serve as a gentle warning that Diego Cremonese would probably be an adversary during his managerial reign. However David took it badly. After throwing a couple of expletives around, he stormed out the office. Juan Calvano told me I had to see things from David Bisconti’s point of view: the gruesome clash with Diego Cremonese had left him traumatised and horrified, he had done everything humanly possible to make amends, he genuinely acted more honourably than any other footballer in that same scenario, so he thinks this most dreadful experience is behind him – then, that spectre from the past tries to come and ruin the most wonderful opportunity of your life. David was devastated. That's why he just exploded in that news conference.

I knew life at such a massive club would be exciting, but I didn’t expect to have to deal with all this in the space of my first 6 weeks in the job. Talk about being thrown it at the deep end! Nevertheless I still had work to do, and that meant writing up the squad profiles of the new signings for the official website, even though I knew people would be more interested in their inaugural news conference than their skills:

Rabico, Aged 30 (Bra) M R/C: An experienced campaigner that is at home either on the right flank or in the centre of midfield. It is a signing that further strengthens David Bisconti’s midfield unit. As well as experience, Rabico provides excellent technical proficiency, with a wonderful range of passing and real eye for the killer pass which could prove vital when trying to carve the opposition open in matches Rosario Central are expected to win.

Miguel Portillo, Aged 26 (Arg) D C: Miguel was seen as a bit of a long shot to win a contract when he initially joined on loan, but he has impressed the coaching staff enough while on trial to win a permanent contract. He brings pace and mobility to the defence and has also demonstrated good concentration and reading of the game in his short time at the club. It also must be noted that he has looked to form a good partnership with Guillermo Burdisso in the time they have spent playing together.

Martin Cardetti, Aged 33 (Arg) S C: A man who simply needs no introduction. Since leaving Rosario Central in the mid-90’s he has gone on to have a varied and successful career, scoring goals from Buenos Aires to Paris. After a disappointing period at Colon last year, he will be hoping a return to his boyhood club will re-ignite his passion for the game – and unlock the undoubted finishing ability he possesses.

I quickly sent the profiles over to Sebastian Tries, so they could be uploaded as soon as possible, we really need to get back on message – that these players are excellent and will prove good signings, needless to say that message got somewhat lost yesterday morning!

Another thing that has got somewhat lost among the furore of yesterday’s news conference is that we are very close to Rosario Central’s first home game of the season. The friendly versus Ajaccio of France would be tomorrow afternoon, and I was relieved that after a hellish week we could get some football played.

08/08/09

As I sat in the media section of the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito I couldn’t help but be impressed with the din coming from the supporters. I have been informed by a couple of people in other departments that the attendance was only expected to be around 5000. But that obviously included all the main supporters clubs who were as vociferous as always. The supporter clubs of Rosario Central can be our greatest asset; however, when things are not going well they are an un-wielding enemy.

Juan Calvano had put out a couple of press releases, and went on a couple of TV stations yesterday to condemn Diego Cremonese’s behaviour and state that David Bisconti is a gentile man of honour. He had obviously done well, because there was certainly no disdain present towards the manager.

Diego Cremonese had obviously inadvertently created a real siege mentality too. Banners as varied as “Viva David Bisconti” to “Cremonese = Comadreja resentida” [Cremonese = Bitter weasel] – echoing the now infamous retort from Bisconti to Cremonese which has been all over the news channels since the incident. The message was clear: the fans were 100% behind David Bisconti

“Ce stade est tres beau!” I heard one of the travelling media officials from Ajaccio say to the other.

They were right. The stadium was beautiful, and spectacular. For the first time in a stressful week I took a moment to remind myself how lucky I was – before opening my laptop and starting work:

Rosario Central vs. GFCO Ajaccio, Estadio Gigante de Arroyito, Rosario. Friendly. Att: 5689

Rosario Central (4-1-2-1-2): Broun; Graff, Fassi, Burdisso, Danelon; Ambrosi; Mendez ©; Rabico; Gomez; Monesterolo, Franzoia

Writes Jorge Goncalves

If today’s friendly is anything to go by then Rosario Central fans can look forward to a season of drama and nail-biting excitement at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito.

After a first 10 minutes played out in a scrappy, combative midfield area Rosario Central finally managed to carve out a chance in the eleventh minute. Ironically it came on the back of a very good Ajaccio move. Jacques Cristofari and Christophe Ettori linked with Latin flair down the right flank, before the latter whipped in a delectable cross into the box. Three Ajaccio midfielders had made attacking runs to try and get on the end of the cross, in doing so vacating their defensive duty. Guillermo Burdisso spectacularly craned his neck to clear the ball away from his own six yard box – and straight to Paul Ambrosi, who quickly launched a long ball over the Ajaccio defence. Andres Franzoia was onto the long ball like a flash, and only a great save from Sebastian Lombard denied Rosario Central a classic route one counter attacking goal.

That chance was exactly the catalyst Rosario Central were looking for, and the home team began to dominate possession and exert pressure on their French visitors. After 18 minutes that pressure told. It came after Ajaccio midfield workhorse Louis Poggi played a wayward pass straight to Sebastian Monesterolo, who would aware enough to slip a lovely pass to Jesus Mendez in the inside-right channel. Mendez showed great vision to pick out Jonatan Gomez with a measured cut-back, and Gomez lashed the ball home – much to the delight of the home fans.

Poor Louis Poggi was then immediately booked after the restart for a crude foul of Rabico. This was followed by defenders David Saladini and David Jauregiuberry going into the book as Ajaccio struggled to get any kind of grip on the match.

Ajaccio’s robust tactics made it difficult Rosario Central to turn their territorial advantage into clear cut chances, although Sebastian Monesterolo should have made it 2-0 when he got his head on the end of a terrific Rabico cross, unfortunately the trialist could only skew his header wide from 6 yards out.

As half time approached – and with Rosario Central territorially dominating – amazingly Thibauld Beck showed Monesterolo all about deadly finishing, by equalising with Ajaccio’s first meaningful shot on goal. French left winger Christophe Aubenet must take most of the credit for the goal. He did well to drift away from Alexis Danelon and put in a cross David Beckham would be proud of. All Beck had to do was guide the ball towards goal from 6 yards, and he did that with aplomb.

Half time substitution: Nahuel Valentini for Alexis Danelon

One thing that fans of Ajaccio can be sure of as the Ligue 2 season approaches is that their team is well drilled, organised and will be very hard to beat. This deduction comes from a spirited – albeit a little cynical at times – performance in the second half. Within ten minutes of the restart Vincent Escude, Jean-Toussant Moretti, and Anthony Colinet and overall Ajaccio succeeded in nullifying the home side’s effectiveness.

As the half progressed Rosario Central did manage to breach their French visitors defence enough to fashion out a couple of chances. Firstly Monesterolo was played through by Paul Ambrosi, but he could only fire straight at Sebastian Lombard. That was followed by a poor miss from Andres Franzoia after a cross from Patricio Graff found the little forward at the back post; he could only slice the ball into the side netting.

Despite these couple of decent chances it was looking like Ajaccio would get exactly what they wanted from this friendly and close the game out in a draw.

84th Minute substitution: Martin Cardetti for Sebastian Monesterolo

The introduction of Martin Cardetti added a little enthusiasm to the atmosphere, and a little more dynamism to the play of the home side. His first action was to fire a 35 yard shot two feet wide, but even that got a positive reaction from the fans who were desperate for someone to make a difference.

Cardetti had an influence in what would turn out to be the final meaningful attack of the game. The former PSG man dropped deep to collect a zipped pass from Paul Ambrosi. Cardetti turned and fed a nice ball into Jonatan Gomez, who had found a lovely pocket of space on the edge of the Ajaccio penalty area. Gomez did exceedingly well to squeeze a through ball to Andres Franzoia, who looked on the edge of offside – but the flagged stayed down, and with the whites of the keepers eyes in his sight, Franzoia fired low across Lombard into the corner from 8 yards to give David Bisconti a dramatic win in his home bow.

Rosario Central (Gomez 18’, Franzoia 90+2’) 2 – 1 GFCO Ajaccio (Beck 40’)

MoM: Jonatan Gomez 7.9

In all honesty if anybody has been taken in by Diego Cremonese’s attempts to discredit the Rosario Central manager, and believes that David Bisconti is not good enough for the job – then this win will have nothing to convince them otherwise. The great thing about being an internal journalist is that you are not required to be too critical in your articles, but if I was neutral then I’d say today’s performance was an unimaginative, lethargic display against a fairly limited opponent.

Nevertheless, I suppose at this stage it is all about fitness, not the performance, and a hard fought 90 minutes against a physical, organised European side is a fairly good workout. The true quality of the team will need to come to the fore by the time Colon visit in a week, though.

Great story so far, I'll be sure to keep following it.

One little thing: "bitter weasel" would translate as "comadreja resentida" or "amargada" instead of "amarga" in this context. "Amargo/a" is only used in Spanish for the bitter taste, not to refer to a person's attitude.

Great story so far, I'll be sure to keep following it.

One little thing: "bitter weasel" would translate as "comadreja resentida" or "amargada" instead of "amarga" in this context. "Amargo/a" is only used in Spanish for the bitter taste, not to refer to a person's attitude.

I can't say my lack of Spanish proficiency suprises me! Damn online translators . I'll do you a deal: You keep reading, and I'll try and cut out the crappy translations!

I think we can all tell from Dalbeider's criticism that they are few and far between

Still loving it The RingMaster...checking it every night

I can't say my lack of Spanish proficiency suprises me! Damn online translators . I'll do you a deal: You keep reading, and I'll try and cut out the crappy translations!

Deal . And if you're in doubt with any translation, feel free to ask me. Hey, being Spanish may be useful for something for a change .

Glad for your continued support and comment Enj, I appreciate it. I'll certainly give you a buzz Dalbeider if i'm writing in Spanish Hope you guys continue to read!

11/08/09

With the first league match against Colon just 5 days away it is now a countdown to the publication of our first match programme. We have to have the copy proofed and locked by the 13th in order to get it to the printers, and get 40,000 copies printed and ready for distribution by the afternoon of the 16th.

Already ready to go we have my Twin Peaks feature, we have the excellently written Captain’s Column by Jesus Mendez where he outlines his excitement at getting under way with such a huge match against Colon. David Bisconti has also penned a Manager’s View where he talks about his hopes and expectations, and Angel has penned a decent Opposition Profile outlining Colon’s main dangermen, the most potent of which – he concludes – is former Glasgow Rangers striker Federico Nieto.

We then have the usual filler: Youth Team Profiles, Fan of the Week, Fixture List etc etc – you know the stuff. All held together with the most important aspect of the match programme [it is a sad indictment, but true] the adverts – the things that keep the presses rolling, and this year we have full pages by Unilever, John Deere and SM Megastores. We also have half pages by Kappa, Paladini, and Betfair.com. Although I’m not privy to financial targets and I don’t know our rates card [a list of how much it costs to advertise with a publication] I would imagine we are getting a decent income from match programme adverts this season.

There are only a couple of finishing touches to be done for the match programme, and it will easily be ready to go by the 13th. Today’s finishing touch is to send A to Z over to Juan Calvano. A to Z is my other new feature for the match programme, and when you see it you’ll see it is mind-numbingly self-explanatory. As you may well imagine, I’ve started with A:

For publication in the match programme of Rosario Central vs Colon, 16/08/09:

A TO Z

A is for ARGENTINA

Writes Jorge Goncalves

All Rosario fans can be truly proud that their football club has had a wonderful influence on the football heritage of our great nation.

The most famous incidence of Argentina borrowing some of Rosario’s stardust came in 1978 when the FIFA World Cup came home to Argentina. The competition was set alight by the genius of former Rosarina Mario Kempes, who scored a double in the final, Kempes would go on to represent Argentine 43 times, scoring 20 goals.

Our very own Estadio Gigante de Arroyito played a huge part in that World Cup, including the ‘Battle of Rosario’ against Brazil. The Group B of the Second Round was essentially a battle between Argentina and Brazil. In the first round of group games, Brazil beat Peru 3-0 while Argentina saw off Poland 2-0. Brazil and Argentina then played out a tense and violent goalless draw, also known as "A batalha de Rosário", so both teams went into the last round of matches with three points.

Argentina had an advantage that their match against Peru kicked off several hours after Brazil's match with Poland. Brazil won their match 3-1, so Argentina could know that they had to beat Peru by four clear goals to go through to the final. Argentina managed it with ease. Trailing 2-0 at half-time, Peru simply collapsed in the second half, and Argentina eventually won 6-0. Brazil point to the fact the Peruvian goalkeeper was born in Argentina as evidence of conspiracy – but in truth the combined Rosario magic of the Arroyita and El Matador ensured that World Cup was always going to be Argentina’s.

The Estadio Gigante de Arroyito is listed as the ‘other’ official ground of the Argentina national team, behind El Monumental in Buenos Aires, and it is generally considered the Arroyito is the more vociferous and difficult to play at stadium for the opposition.

Club Atletico Rosario Central can also boast the 5th top scorer in the history of the Argentinean national team. Leopoldo Luque only played for Central in the 1972 season – although his goals/games ratio was exemplary, before moving on to enjoy prolific spells with clubs such as River Plate, Santos and Racing Club. His 22 goals in 45 caps for Argentina put him in 5th place of the all time top goal scorers, only behind the greats Luis Artime (24 gls), Diego Maradona (34 gls), Hernan Crespo (36 gls) and Gabriel Batistuta (56 gls).

We have also given several other top international players to Argentina. Agile keeper Roberto Bonano played here for 5 years; Jose Chamot began what would turn out to be a 24-cap career with Rosario Central; current Lyon and Argentina whippet Cesar Delgado learned his trade with los canallas; Valencia’s perennial European competition finalists of the late-90’s/early 00’s relied heavily on the supply from Kily Gonzalez, who went on to claim 56 caps.

Of course we mustn’t forget our current manager David Bisconti, who contributed to the Argentine national team with 12 caps and 1 goal, and its now up to him to bring through the next batch of Rosario Central Argentine stars.

This article would be sent over to Juan Calvano, as everything for the match programmes is, and he will proof it before placing it into the publication. I was looking forward to seeing the finished match programme – as I have contributed around 1/3rd of the articles it shall be getting framed and put up on my wall as my first major achievement in sports journalism.

13/08/09

Carrot and coriander soup never tasted so good. This morning Juan Calvano called me to congratulate me on a job well done with regards to the match programme. Apparently he is very happy with the overall content, and the final draft has been sent to the printers this morning. So I currently sit, a very contented man, in the Rosario Central cafeteria.

It is actually a welcome respite. This week has been a steep learning curve with regards to the local media’s insatiable thirst for comments from the football club in the lead up to a derby game. There has been barely an unbroken five minute period where I have not received a call from one paper or another. They range from is there any preliminary team news? to Is it true Horacio Usandizaga wants to ban all media from the game after the news conference incident? and everything in-between.

In truth such a big game is probably a godsend. It has shifted much of the focus away from the fact our manager was about 10 seconds away from a boxing match with the sports editor of a leading Rosario daily.Speaking [indirectly] of news conferences: There will be a pre-match press conference held on the 15th in preparation for the Rosario Central – Colon match. That news, when it was delivered to me by Juan Calvano this morning, sent something of a shiver down my spine. After last week’s scenes the last thing I needed to hear was that we are hosting another news conference, but I am assured by Senor Calvano that pre- and post-match news conferences are very different occasions from the one-off news conferences to make exciting announcements.

In fact his exact words were: “Don’t worry, you won’t see Diego Cremonese – or any decent journalists for that matter. These are repetitive bullsh*t. Same old questions, same old answers, after a couple of them you will be on autopilot for them.” Presuming Juan Calvano is accurate in his assessment of these occasions, I won’t put you – the reader - through the repetitive trauma of reporting every tedious pre- and post-match news conference to you. Rest assured if anything noteworthy happens in one of them then you will be the first to know.

“Is this seat taken?” Came a sweet voice floating over my shoulder.

I quickly swung round to see the rather fantastic sight of the beautiful Eva standing in a flowing black pants-suit. I hadn’t seen Eva for a while – well, I had said ‘hi’ a few times as I passed her at reception, but I hadn’t chatted with her for a while. So, this was a pleasant surprise.

“No, of course not.” I chirpily replied, smiling in the process. I felt like my reply was over-eager and my smile goofy….I guess the presence of Latin perfection tends to make one self-critical.

“So,” she began, sitting across from me, “the big game is this weekend, what’s the gossip in the press department?!” She asked with a mischievous smile.

“Gossip?” I laughed. “You must be thinking about the journalists in the movies? There’s no Frost/Nixon going on at Rosario Central.”

“I don’t know about that. I saw the news conference last week on ESPN Deportes – that had a little of the Frost/Nixon about it…..if President Nixon had been ready to punch David Frost in the face!” She exclaimed.

We both laughed, and if I’m not very much mistaken [and that has been known to happen frequently in my 22 years on this earth thus far] there was a little bit of chemistry.

“So…..” The thought of there being chemistry between me and this stunningly gorgeous brunette had me utterly tongue-tied. “….I see you went for the broccoli and stilton soup.”

Even by my low standards cheese-based sweet-talk was a pretty poor effort. Eva, thankfully, just laughed and tossed her hair, before having a spoonful.

“Ah, quite the observant journalist aren’t you? I can see I won’t be able to get anything past you!” She said with a giggle, before having another heaped spoonful.

“Wow, conversations about soup…I’ll have you rushing back to dine with me in the future,” I recovered, with a little self-defacing humour, “Although there’s nothing to exciting going on in the press department, its still pretty fun to be in the midst of the build up to a new season.” I said, eventually answering her initial question.

“I know what you mean,” she replied, talking between spoonfuls of soup, “we’re pretty swamped in the administrative department too. Constant requests for tickets, musical instrument passes, more away fan tickets, extra police presence, and all sorts more. It’s hard graft, but it’s worth it to be part of a Primera Division football club.”

“So you’re a football fan?” I asked.

“Oh, absolutely,” she insisted. For a moment I felt a ping of shame at the fact I was surprised. I have no defence for the fact that because she is a beautiful woman I assumed she wouldn’t be a football fan. “I live for the sport. Granted, being a receptionist/administrative staff isn’t my dream job, but at least I’m involved at some level with the sport.”

“If you don’t mind me asking,” I started, “who do you support?” My curiosity was piqued.

“Well I’m born and bred in Rosario; so take a guess Mr Investigative Journalist!” She challenged playfully.

“Well, it could be any of the Santa Fe teams really?” I said.

“Are you implying there is more than one team in Santa Fe?” She scoffed.

I laughed: “Rosario then?”

“Oh yes Jorge, oh yes.” She repeated with a smile.

“Anyway,” She said, after a final scrape of her soup bowl, “I’d better get back to work. Those match day visitor passes won’t laminate themselves!” She insisted, with a wry smile.

“Sure,” I said, as coolly as I could muster, “I’ll maybe see you around?” I said hopefully.

“I’m sure you will Jorge Goncalves”, she smiled as she walked towards the exit, “…..and viva Los Canallas!!” She shouted across the cafeteria, turning a few heads [as if she needed help to turn heads].

I couldn’t help but smile. I think I’m in love.

Safe to say my Best Rest of the World title is slipping away and only one month after getting it! Fantastic read so far, really excellent and imo the best story on the board atm.