Olympiacos has been forced to rethink its attack after Ayoub El Kaabi, the club's top scorer, suffered a severe leg injury. The Moroccan international underwent surgery for a fractured tibia and fibula, an injury that could keep him out for the rest of the season. With El Kaabi sidelined, the Greek giants are moving quickly to reinforce their frontline.
Mexican forward Armando González, who arrived from Chivas de Guadalajara in the summer, has been thrust into the starting lineup. The 22-year-old, known as Hormiga, was originally brought in as a rotational option, but now he leads the line for coach Imanol Alguacil. González has embraced the opportunity, but the club's management is not resting on its laurels.
Olympiacos eyes Mauro Icardi as free agent
Reports from Argentina indicate that Olympiacos has made initial contact with Mauro Icardi's representatives. The Argentine striker is available on a free transfer after leaving Galatasaray, and the Greek club is considering a one- or two-year deal. Icardi, who has played for Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and Galatasaray, would bring a wealth of experience and a proven goal-scoring record.
If the signing goes through, it would create a direct competition for the starting striker role. González, who has been eager to prove himself in Europe, would have to fight for minutes against a player with a much higher profile. The situation echoes the reasons González chose Olympiacos over other suitors, citing the club's ambition and the chance to play in European competitions.
Negotiations are still in the exploratory phase, with Icardi weighing multiple offers from clubs across Europe and beyond. The Argentine forward is taking his time to decide his next move, which could work in González's favor. The longer the talks drag on, the more opportunities the Mexican striker gets to showcase his ability on the pitch.
For González, this is a critical moment in his career. He has already shown flashes of his potential, and a strong run of performances could cement his place in the starting eleven, even if Icardi arrives. The Mexican international has the backing of the coaching staff, who appreciate his work rate and movement off the ball.
Olympiacos fans have also taken notice of the young striker. His energy and willingness to press from the front have made him a quick favorite. However, the club's hierarchy is aware that relying on a relatively inexperienced player for the entire season is risky, especially with the team competing in the Greek Super League and European tournaments.
The potential addition of Icardi would not necessarily mean the end of González's time in Piraeus. The Mexican could still feature regularly, especially if the club uses a two-striker formation or rotates players for different competitions. But the competition would undoubtedly raise the level of training and push both players to perform at their best.
González's journey from Liga MX to Greece has been closely followed back home. His dedication to his online university degree while playing professionally has earned him respect beyond the pitch. He has often spoken about the importance of education and staying grounded, qualities that could help him handle the pressure of competing with a star like Icardi.
For now, González remains the main man in Olympiacos's attack. The upcoming weeks will be crucial, as he looks to make the most of his extended run in the starting lineup. If he delivers goals and consistent performances, he could force the club to reconsider their pursuit of Icardi or at least ensure he remains a key part of the squad's plans.
The situation is fluid, and Olympiacos's decision will likely depend on how quickly Icardi makes up his mind. But one thing is certain: the Greek club is determined to stay competitive, and the arrival of a player of Icardi's caliber would be a statement of intent. For González, it's a challenge he seems ready to embrace.
