Diego Aguirre had an important role in his career as technical director, supporting his third Uruguayan championship at the front of the Peñarol club, a team with the one who held a destacada trayectoria. Su Victoria, which achieved the titles obtained in 2003 and 2009/2010, was celebrated with great emotion by both the coach and the players, directors and followers of the club.
At the end of the party that crowned Peñarol as champion, Aguirre expressed his joy and pride for the work accomplished. “This is the triumph of everyone. Of the players, of the directors, of the technical body, of all the players. I'm excited. It's a time to have a lot of fun and make a lot of people happy. Let's go to spectacular vacations because the hincha deserves it. The happiness of many depends on the fact that Peñarol has praised this title, and thanks to us we can obtain it”, commented the visibly satisfied coach in an interview broadcast by VTV.
Aguirre also spoke about his plans for the future and his desire to continue enjoying success with the club. Referring to his next goal, he manifested himself: “Vamos por la sexta”, an expression that reflects the compromise and the strengths of the trans team that have been close to achieving glory in previous editions. The team's participation in the Copa Libertadores this year was recorded with enthusiasm, highlighting the victories before the great Brazilian clubs. “The idea of a very strong team continues to be present. We know it's difficult, but what we've shown so far is everything possible. I have to continue trusting and working hard,” he stated.
The coach stressed the importance of maintaining the illusion at all times, despite the difficulties that may survive. “We cannot lose this illusion knowing that the path is complicated, but we are part of a giant team, with an impressive history. Let us always think big,” he added.
Aguirre also echoed the changes the outfit experienced during the year and acknowledged the commitment of players who came to the club looking for an opportunity. “This is a new plant, with many players who were not well known, but who welcomed their opportunities and enjoyed themselves. They respected the honor of wearing this shirt and defended it with everything,” he said, showing profound thanks for the commitment and dedication of his crew.
The technical director also recorded that since the beginning of the season his goal had been to establish a closer connection between the back and the players, something that, according to him, had been lost in recent years. “Peñarol experienced difficult moments in recent times, but from the beginning this is that people will want to take advantage of the team, connect with the players and live the club with passion. I believe we love them,” assured Aguirre, who has highlighted the return of this special connection between players and aficionados.
Based on the team's numbers, the coach recognized that the campaign was exceptional, but reported more than the statistical logos that he was actually surprised by the quality of the game and the performances of the players. In particular, if he showed great appreciation to Leo Fernández, he was converted into a key piece in the team's ataque. “Leo was fundamental. When the goals were not scored and everything seemed complicated, it was the apparatus and by God this was a decisive victory with a goal from the corner”, I said Aguirre, referring to one of the most important games of the season.
Peñarol's handling of the directive also received praise from Aguirre. The coach appreciated the constant help of the Board of Directors and president Ignacio Ruglio, dedicating the effort made to strengthening the team with quality players. “Peñarol has made a great effort in the fichajes market. We really appreciate the directive's vote because we are grateful to them for arming a competitive team. It's very difficult to have a good year without quality players. This title is a triumph of all,” he said.
For Aguirre, live the experience of directing in Peñarol at this moment has sido algo único. “The experience of living with this plant will be unsurpassed. This is a title that I will always register, and also with Peñarol if he can win various champions, this is what generates the most illusion in me”, commented the coach.
The coach also noted that this is his third title as Uruguayan champion, a significant record in his career. However, I pointed out that this championship has a special flavor. “The previous two titles were in the final with Nacional, but this year was different. It was a championship that we enjoyed from the beginning until the end. Ganamos Apertura, Annuale and Clausura, we were third in the Libertadores, we obtained 93 points, and we were invictos in the Apertura for the first time. It was a difficult year to repeat, but with time the logros are worth even more,” he stated.
Aguirre attempted his speech looking to the future with optimism. “The year 2024 will be a great year for Peñarol. We have many things to do and much to follow as we work to continue growing,” he concluded.
This Uruguayan championship represents much more than just a title for Diego Aguirre and Peñarol. It is the result of a collective effort, the renewal and consolidation of the crew and the renewed connection between the players and the aficion. With the mirada aimed at the future and the goal of reaching the titles, Aguirre and his team prepare for a new challenge in Uruguayan fútbol, trusting in its potential and the strength of the club's history.
