San Lorenzo de Almagro is facing an internal crisis after a 2-0 loss to Huracán in the derby, their first home defeat in 25 years. Just 48 hours before hosting Unión, a group of over 50 hardline fans stormed training to demand changes from the squad and manager Pipo Gorosito. The team, currently 15th in the Liga Profesional Argentina with just 3 points (1W-0D-3L) and a run of LLWLL, aims to avoid another loss this Saturday.
What happened at training?
The fans entered through Gate 2 of the Pedro Bidegain stadium and confronted the players in the 'nave', demanding more attitude and commitment. 'This is San Lorenzo. Once you step through the door, you're professionals', they told them. They also reminded them of the support received in the fight for better wages for youth players but demanded they perform accordingly.
Why is the tension at its peak?
The team has scored only 1 goal and conceded 4 so far this season, 7 points behind leaders Vélez Sarsfield. The defeat to Huracán, considered one of the darkest pages in the history of Bajo Flores, sparked the wrath of the fans. 'They didn’t just lose a derby, they lost their dignity', read one of the banners. The pressure on captain Nicolás Tripichio and Alexis Cuello is at its highest.
What's next?
The hardline fans demanded a list of players who don’t want to stay at the club, to be handed in this Friday. 'Here, we want those who want to stay', was the message. The squad, in silence, must respond with a win against Unión to calm the situation. The board, meanwhile, is evaluating strengthening the team in the next transfer window.
