Internet star makes professional football debut and is immediately replaced

Playing a game for a professional team, even for a short period of time, is a dream for many football fans. Argentinian Ivan Buhajeruk achieved this recently. He even started against leaders Sarsfield Town at Lestra Sports Club, but was substituted after a minute due to off-the-ball contact. The Argentinian Serie A club's actions have drawn heavy criticism.

Because Buhajluk is an internet star and influencer without any professional football experience. The streamer, nicknamed “Spreen,” has millions of subscribers across various social media platforms. The 24-year-old is followed by nearly 10 million people on Twitch. He signed a contract with Riestra two months ago and now makes his professional debut there, thanks to a joint sponsor. Buhajlouk worked with an energy drink manufacturer whose owner also controls the club.

“This is disrespectful to football,” opposing forward Brayan Romero said after the game, explaining: “It sends the wrong message to society and to young football players who keep trying and failing.” Buharyu The fact that Grams only made his professional debut has no place in the sporting world.

Juan Sebastian Veron took the same route. The long-time national team player and current president of Argentinian Serie A side Estudiantes La Plata wrote on Instagram that there was “a complete lack of respect for football and football players.” The Argentine Football Association therefore launched an investigation into whether the use of “Spreen” violated ethical standards.

The influencer has not been on the scene for a long time.Picture: www.imago-images.de

Lestra Sports Club defended the campaign, which aims to “attract new target groups to football and build bridges between different worlds and platforms”. They don't want to hurt Sarsfield or Argentine football. Opponents were informed of this a week in advance.

Captain Milton Sellitz explained that Buhareyuk is a “friend of the team” who is taking advantage of a contract. “Everyone wants to play in Division One,” said Selitz, who also reported that the idea came from club owner and energy drink maker Victor Stimfale. Deployments are therefore contractually agreed upon. But it would be the first and last time for Ivan Buharejuk, alias “Spreen”. Head coach Christian Fabiani explained this after the 1-1 draw. (NIH)

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