Leonel “Lolo” Miranda spoke publicly after a video went viral showing him in the early hours of the morning in Villa Tranquila offering a gold ring, a scene that sparked concern and much speculation about his current situation. Without a club since late September when he last played for San Telmo, the midfielder explained the context of the recording and made it clear what his priority is: to feel like a footballer again. Miranda, who has played for Independiente and Racing, denied that it was a matter of financial need and assured that everything originated from a personal favor to a friend. “It came from a favor I did to a friend who was starting a gold-selling business. He asked me if I could give him a hand and I did. The only thing I want is to play again, train, and earn my place somehow,” he stated. Miranda is currently training at Lanús and in fields in Avellaneda, determined to stay competitive while he awaits a concrete offer: “I don't care about the money, I just want to be on a team to earn my living as I have all my life,” he affirmed. Although in the video he admitted that “a bunch of offers came in,” he clarified that for now “they are all just hints or questions, but nothing concrete.” “I was filmed, but I didn't sell the ring and I don't have the money,” he explained. The repercussions were not long in coming. While some messages were supportive, he also received criticism that affected him personally: “It made me sad. These things hurt me, but also my family, who sees me training every day. And the more I train, the better I feel. Everyone looks at me sideways, no one thinks about mental health. Not being on a club doesn't help me at all,” he admitted. During 2025, he had little continuity: five matches at Banfield and eight at San Telmo, where he provided one assist. “I'm preparing for that every day. I'm going to come back,” he concluded.
