Exequiel Palacios
A two-way midfielder who presses, tackles and passes forward — the tireless link who helped Leverkusen win an unbeaten domestic double.
Playing Style Summary
Palacios is a combative, technically secure central midfielder who balances defensive work with progressive passing. A River Plate product, he joined Bayer Leverkusen in January 2020 and spent six and a half years there, becoming a key part of Xabi Alonso's 2023-24 side that won the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal without losing a domestic match. In August 2026 he joined newly promoted Ipswich Town on a contract until 2030. Internationally he has won the 2021 Copa América and the 2022 World Cup with Argentina.
Defining Traits
Ball-Winning Intensity
Aggressive in duels and quick to close down receivers, he wins possession in midfield and stops counter-attacks before they gather pace.
Forward Passing
Looks forward first after winning the ball, playing into the attacking midfielders' feet or into the channels to start transitions.
Double-Pivot Balance
Comfortable alongside a deeper playmaker, covering ground and adjusting his position so the partnership stays balanced.
Press Participation
Steps out of midfield to join the press, reading when to jump on a pass into midfield and when to hold position.
Strengths
- Tackling and ball recovery in central areas
- Quick, forward-thinking passing after regains
- Tactical discipline in a double pivot
- Experience of winning at the highest level for club and country
Limitations
- Limited goal output relative to his involvement
- Combative style brings a regular risk of yellow cards
- Has suffered injuries, including a spinal fracture on international duty in 2020
More Argentina players
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Thiago Almada
“A compact, two-footed creator who lives between the lines — quick feet in tight pockets, a dangerous strike from distance and the freedom to drift wide.”
Lionel Messi
“The game's greatest decision-maker — a forward who walks to find space, then decides matches with a pass, a dribble or a finish nobody else saw.”
Nicolás González
“A powerful, left-footed wide forward who attacks the box like a striker — strong in the air, hard-working and versatile across the front line.”
Giuliano Simeone
“A relentless right-sided runner — intensity, direct running and tireless defending that make him a wide player built for Atlético.”
Julián Álvarez
“The complete modern forward — relentless pressing, intelligent movement across the front line and the finishing range to score from anywhere.”
Lautaro Martínez
“Inter's captain and penalty-box predator — strong back-to-goal, sharp in the six-yard box and relentless in the press.”
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