What started as a huge transfer triumph for Diego Milito’s management has ended in sporting disappointment. Richard Sanchez, the Paraguayan midfielder who arrived at the start of the year amid high expectations, has been included in coach Gustavo Costas’ list of expendable players for the 2026 season.
Racing invested a whopping $3 million in his entire transfer, snapping up one of the América de México side’s stars. However, the midfielder was never able to adapt to Argentine football or the coach’s system, and finished short with very little playing time.
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Red numbers and rare participation
Sanchez’s productivity has been alarming for a player of his caliber. During 2025, he played just 13 games (just six as a starter), totaling a meager 618 minutes without registering any goals or assists. His lack of impact was confirmed in the Copa Libertadores, where he only appeared in two group stage matches and completely disappeared from the team rosters in the knockout rounds.
An uncertain future due to his high salary
The Paraguayan’s departure will not be easy for the club’s management. The main obstacle is his high salary and his contract is valid until 2028. Although Paraguay’s Olimpia has already inquired, Racing believe a more feasible option would be a loan with a mandatory purchase option to try to recoup the initial investment.
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Alongside Sanchez, other players such as Barrios, Santiago Quiros and Ramiro Di Gregorio are also looking for new directions, marking a profound revamp of Costas’ squad after a year of goals scored but mixed individual performances.
This article has been translated into English by artificial intelligence. You can read the original in 🇪🇸 here.
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