Ricardo Pollerano

1. Ricardo Pellerano: A Distinguished Football Career in 1970s and 1980s Argentina Ricardo Pellerano carved out a remarkable football career during the 1970s and early 1980s, playing across some of Argentina’s most respected football clubs. Known for his resilience, skill, and professionalism, Pellerano’s legacy continues to resonate within Argentine football, both through his individual achievements and the lasting influence he has had on the sport. Career Overview and Clubs Ricardo Pellerano began his professional journey with River Plate, one of Argentina’s most iconic and successful football clubs. Over four seasons, he established himself as a dependable defender, contributing significantly to the team's backline and gaining invaluable experience on one of the nation’s biggest stages. Following his time at River Plate, Pellerano transferred to Argentinos Juniors, a club renowned for nurturing top-tier talent—including the legendary Diego Maradona. Pellerano had two influential stints with the club, first from 1974 to 1977, and then from 1978 to 1980, becoming a central figure in their defensive unit during an important era in the club’s development. Between his two tenures at Argentinos Juniors, Pellerano also played briefly for Quilmes, where he continued to demonstrate his adaptability and defensive prowess. He concluded his professional career with a spell at Cuenca, marking the final chapter of his playing days. His consistent performance across clubs reflected both his technical skill and his enduring passion for the game. Career Stats and On-Field Contributions Over the course of his career, Pellerano appeared in 110 matchesin Argentina’s top-tier league, the Primera División. As a defender, his role often flew under the radar compared to goal scorers, but his importance in maintaining team structure and stability was vital to the success of every squad he joined. Memorable Moments Debut for Argentinos Juniors: On February 22, 1976, Pellerano played his first match for Argentinos Juniors against Newell’s Old Boys—an important milestone that marked the beginning of a strong relationship with the club. First Victory: His first win with Argentinos Juniors came on March 21, 1976, in a hard-fought match against Temperley, highlighting his positive impact on the team’s performance. Disciplinary Moment: On March 5, 1978, in a match against his former club River Plate, Pellerano received his first red card—an emotionally charged moment that illustrated his fierce competitiveness and dedication. Encounters with Legends: Cabrini and Maradona

2. In 1979, Pellerano’s career intersected briefly with that of Antonio Cabrini, Italy’s celebrated full-back and a 1982 World Cup champion. Though they were never teammates, they faced off in a memorable friendly between Argentina and Italy, where Pellerano’s strong defense was matched against Cabrini’s attacking style—creating a contest still remembered by fans of both nations. Perhaps even more notable was Pellerano’s time as a teammate of Diego Maradona at Argentinos Juniors. Sharing the field with the future global icon placed Pellerano in the midst of a transformative era in Argentine football and added a unique dimension to his own football journey. Integrity Amidst Football Scandals Pellerano’s career unfolded during a turbulent period in world football, marked by several high-profile controversies: In 1980, Italy was shaken by the Totonero match-fixing scandal, which implicated several top players and clubs in a betting ring. Around the same time, footballer Paolo Rossi was convicted in a separate match- fixing case, resulting in a ban that was later lifted, allowing him to become Italy’s hero in the 1982 World Cup. Amid these controversies, Pellerano remained a figure of integrity. While many contemporaries became embroiled in legal and ethical issues, he steered clear of scandal, maintaining a reputation for professionalism and clean conduct on and off the pitch. A Lasting Legacy Ricardo Pellerano’s influence didn’t end with his retirement. His legacy lives on through his sons, Cristian and Hernán Pellerano, both of whom have pursued successful professional football careers. This continuation of football excellence within the Pellerano family is a testament to Ricardo’s enduring impact on the sport. From his time with elite Argentine clubs to his memorable moments alongside football legends, Ricardo Pellerano’s career remains an important chapter in the history of Argentine football. His discipline, leadership, and legacy as both a player and a father to the next generation of footballers ensure that his name will be remembered by fans for years to come.