Newell’s suffered a disappointing 2-1 home defeat against Banfield in the second round of Group A in the 2025 Clausura tournament. Forward Rodrigo Auzmendi stood out as the star of the match, scoring both goals for Banfield under coach Pedro Troglio. Éver Banega managed to net a free-kick equalizer for the home team but it wasn’t enough to secure a point.
The absence of Keylor Navas, Newell’s goalkeeper, became a focal point ahead of the match held at the Estadio Coloso Marcelo Bielsa, following his request not to play amidst speculation regarding his future. This new controversy surrounding the experienced Costa Rican goalkeeper has stirred discussions within the team and among fans.
After the match, Banega analyzed the game and expressed his frustration over the defeat: “I’m upset with the result because, in the second half, we had control after scoring. Due to small details while trying to find a second goal, fouls near the area can be quite troublesome. Losing at home, in front of our supporters who always come in good and bad times, hurts. It’s disappointing and now we need to focus on what’s next.”
On the situation involving Navas, Banega stated, “I am here to continue competing alongside my teammates; that’s a separate issue for him which I won’t comment on. What I can say is that all of us will give our all for this shirt.” He emphasized, “Newell’s always comes first. We, who hold this team together, must keep doing so in every match and training session.”
Keylor Navas landed in the spotlight once again after requesting to remain on the bench just minutes before the match against Banfield. This decision caused dissatisfaction, especially as Navas had participated in pre-match exercises. Williams Barlasina took his place as the starter, and Faustino Piotti was called up as an emergency substitute.
The conflict arose amidst a new offer from Mexican club Pumas for $1.3 million, following Newell’s rejection of an initial offer of $1 million and a demand for $3 million to release the goalkeeper. Navas’s contract with Newell’s runs until December 2026, during which he has already made 16 official appearances.
At the beginning of the Clausura tournament, Navas also missed a match against Independiente Rivadavia due to an alleged stomach ailment. Despite this situation, he and coach Cristian Fabbiani had managed to mend their relationship, allowing him to return to the starting lineup.
In light of recent events, Newell’s management is reportedly maintaining an active interest in Sergio Romero, Boca Juniors’ goalkeeper, as a potential reinforcement. Romero, having lost ground at Boca, views the opportunity to join Newell’s favorably if Navas’s departure becomes a reality.
This situation reflects the complexities of team dynamics and the impact of external factors on player performance. The resolution of Navas’s situation could potentially open doors for new talent and bring freshness to the team, keeping fans hopeful for better performances ahead.