Exequiel Alejandro Palacios

Exequiel Palacios spent his formative years at the River Plate youth academy in Buenos Aires, where he received elite tactical and technical training before making his professional debut.

Exequiel Palacios began his professional career at River Plate, making his senior debut as a teenager in 2015. Under the guidance of Marcelo Gallardo, he developed into a versatile midfielder, helping the club win the 2018 Copa Libertadores in the historic final against Boca Juniors. His ability to link play and his aggressive defensive work made him a standout in the Argentine Primera División. By 2019, he had established himself as one of the best young prospects in South America.

In January 2020, Palacios made the move to Europe, signing with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga. While his initial years in Germany were hampered by injuries, he gradually adapted to the physical demands of the league. His breakthrough came during the 2023-2024 season, where he was a centerpiece of the team that went undefeated to win the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal. His tactical discipline and passing range were instrumental in Xabi Alonso's system.

On the international stage, Palacios has been a consistent member of the Argentina national team during their era of unprecedented success. He was part of the squad that won the 2021 Copa América and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. His ability to provide energy and composure off the bench was a vital tactical tool for manager Lionel Scaloni. He also featured prominently in the successful 2024 Copa América defense.

During the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 seasons, Palacios has continued to dominate the midfield for Leverkusen, consistently ranking among the top passers in the Bundesliga. He has also become a leader in the dressing room, helping mentor younger players joining the club. Despite interest from several Premier League giants, he has remained a key part of the Leverkusen project as they look to maintain their status as a European powerhouse.

By 2026, Palacios has accumulated over 35 caps for Argentina and nearly 150 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen. His career is marked by his ability to perform in high-pressure situations and his relentless dedication to his team's success. He is currently one of the most respected central midfielders in world football, known for his balance and tactical awareness.

Exequiel Palacios was raised in Tucumán before moving to Buenos Aires to pursue his footballing dreams at a young age. He remains deeply connected to his roots and frequently visits his hometown to support local community initiatives. Despite the pressures of international fame, he is known for his reserved and humble personality in his private life.

His personal life has seen some public scrutiny, particularly surrounding his divorce from Yesica Frías in 2024, which involved significant media coverage in Argentina. Since then, he has focused heavily on his professional career and maintaining a private circle of support. He is often seen spending time with his national teammates during international breaks, maintaining close bonds with fellow River Plate graduates.

Off the field, Palacios is a fan of traditional Argentine customs, including enjoying mate and traditional asados. He is also interested in music and often shares his favorite Argentine artists with his teammates in Germany. His resilience in the face of both personal and professional challenges has earned him the respect of fans and peers alike.