Nico Gonzalez made an immediate impact for Juventus after coming off the bench against Parma, scoring the opening goal in a 2-0 victory and helping his side secure an important win.
The Argentina international first forced a superb save from Edoardo Corvi, then struck the woodwork before reacting quickest to score from the rebound. Gonzalez also played a role in Juventus’ second goal, putting Parma under pressure and forcing an error that led to Teun Koopmeiners’ angled finish.
The forward, who spent last season on loan at Atletico Madrid, admitted afterwards that scoring in a Juventus shirt meant a great deal to him.
Nico Gonzalez returns to Juventus with a goal
Juventus endured a frustrating first half, struggling to create clear chances and hearing jeers from the stands at the Allianz Juventus Stadium. The situation changed after Gonzalez entered the game, with the substitute providing the spark needed to break the deadlock.
After his initial effort was saved, Gonzalez hit the woodwork before following up to put Juventus ahead. His pressure also contributed to the second goal, as Parma were forced into a mistake that allowed Koopmeiners to find the net.
“I am happy for the team that worked so hard during the week. We prepared well; I’m pleased for everyone,” Gonzalez told DAZN Italia.
McKennie tribute after the Juventus goal
Gonzalez had a special way of celebrating his first goal. He performed the Harry Potter-style magic wand twirl that has become Weston McKennie’s trademark, with the American midfielder watching from the stands because of an injury.
Gonzalez explained that the celebration had been planned before the match. “McKennie told me before the game that I would come on and score, so I celebrated like him. It was also his birthday this week, so I had to!”
The goal was particularly meaningful because Gonzalez said he had missed wearing the Juventus shirt. “I missed this jersey, so I am happy because to score and get a victory, it makes me go home content,” he said.
Gonzalez focused on football after Juventus’s win
Asked whether his performances for Atletico Madrid and Argentina, along with the trophies he has won, meant he might be underestimated, Gonzalez preferred to leave that judgment to others.
“I don’t know; I cannot answer that. I leave it to others to say,” he said, while making clear how much he enjoys playing football. His first goal for Juventus and contribution to the victory over Parma gave him a memorable return to the team.