Nico Ibáñez steps up for Tigres in Gignac’s absence
The Argentinean is confident that the team will obtain good results against América and Rayados in their next Liga MX matches after their 0-0 draw with Orlando City.
If anyone responded to losing André Pierre-Gignac to injury, it was Nicolás Ibáñez. The Argentinean assumes the responsibility of being the team’s goal scorer whenever the Frenchman is unavailable.
Indeed, Ibáñez sees the responsibility more a motivation than a burden. And he says he feels completely in tune with Gignac whenever they are leading Tigres’ attack together. “It’s not a burden,” he explained during a press conference. “I feel prepared and also, because of the great team we have, my team mates make me feel comfortable. It’s not a burden at all. It is a great motivation, hopefully we do well in these challenges we have. I’m feeling good. Little by little I am adapting to what the city is about and to the team; I feel comfortable playing with Gignac”.
As for the heavy load of games, Ibáñez pointed out that he is hopeful that the team can get the results they need, and added that he trusts the quality and depth of the squad. The former Pachuca striker could start on the bench at the Estadio Universitario for this weekend’s game against América, as the Clausura 2023 reaches Week 11.
“We’re fine, we’re calm, and we’re preparing well. We know that we have a nice week coming up packed with great challenges and we are together, united, working to achieve what we want. We know that we have a large squad of good players. They are all prepared for what is coming. There are a lot of matches coming up which will require a deal deal of effort. But we are prepared and committed. Whoever gets to play will give the best they have”, added the 2023 Liga MX Apertura top scorer and champion with Pachuca.
For Sunday’s clash with América, Sebastián Córdova could start up front ahead of Ibáñez up front, alongside Diego Lainez and Dedé.
Nico Ibáñez’s numbers with Tigres
The Argentinian forward joined Tigres from the defending champions, Pachuca in January. In the nine games he has played so far (eight in the Liga MX and one in the CONCACAF Champions League) he has scored three goals and given one assist in 528 minutes of action.