Panichelli, Argentinian Forward from Strasbourg, Targets PSG Clash and World Cup Spot

Joaquin Panichelli, the Argentinian forward, has emerged as a standout performer in European football this season, with his impressive displays for Strasbourg earning him potential selection for the defending champions at the forthcoming World Cup.

This towering central striker, inspired by the styles of Olivier Giroud and Erling Haaland, has netted 13 goals for the Ligue 1 team to date, featuring a superb pair in the 3-3 stalemate against Paris Saint-Germain back in October.

"Perhaps that match was the turning point for me, when folks in France and across Europe began recognising the name Panichelli," the 23-year-old shared with AFP during a chat at Strasbourg's Stade de la Meinau.

Strasbourg will face PSG once more this Sunday, as the hosts aim to build on their positive momentum under new manager Gary O'Neil from England, following Liam Rosenior's move to Chelsea.

"The club is on an upward trajectory, and each match feels special with the stadium packed. Our youthful team enjoys a fantastic vibe," Panichelli remarks.

Yet, the Alsace outfit faces some unrest, as fans express dissatisfaction with the multi-club ownership arrangement involving Chelsea under the BlueCo group.

Nevertheless, Panichelli remains focused on his progress, sustaining the momentum from last term when he bagged 21 goals in Spain's second division for Mirandes, while loaned from La Liga's Alaves.

"I am not claiming stardom yet, but I have advanced significantly in little time. Some players might take much longer," he concedes.

"I always trusted my skills. The Mirandes stint was crucial, offering the 10 or 15 matches to gain assurance.

"That opportunity allowed growth. I was readying for the following level, and that is precisely what I am achieving here."

Stepping in for Messi

Before then, his 2023/24 campaign suffered from a major knee issue shortly after joining from Buenos Aires powerhouse River Plate, where he had yet to feature for the senior side.

"Typically, I view an injury as a setback, but I treated it as progress, an opportunity to build strength for the leap into European leagues," he explains.

"I aimed to add a few kilos and more muscle. I accomplished that over those six months."

This achievement has resulted in an Argentina national team summons, with his first appearance in a November friendly victory over Angola, entering late as a substitute for Lionel Messi.

"Playing for your nation, especially as someone so deeply Argentinian, is a lifelong ambition, to enter for a short spell replacing Messi was unreal, a fantasy realised."

Unlike his renowned fellow countryman, he brings a traditional striker archetype, which could aid his inclusion in Lionel Scaloni's World Cup plans.

"My on-field approach mirrors my off-field personality. I enjoy timeless pursuits like books and rock tunes," notes Panichelli, son of a former River Plate player.

"Still, I blend that old-school flair with contemporary requirements for stamina and ground coverage.

"I aim for balance. I contribute with either foot and headers. Yet, I stay grounded, content if teammates outshine or net the strikes."

A strong showing versus European title-holders PSG this Sunday would boost his prospects further.

"I must persist with my current efforts, nothing more. Ultimately, consistent form brings opportunities in time. I avoid self-imposed stress," he concludes.

Ligue 1 schedule for this weekend (times GMT)

Friday

Lens versus Le Havre (1945)

Saturday

Paris FC against Marseille (1600), Lorient against Nantes (1800), Monaco against Rennes (2005)

Sunday

Lyon versus Lille (1400), Angers versus Metz, Nice versus Brest, Toulouse versus Auxerre (all 1615), Strasbourg versus Paris Saint-Germain (1945)