Sport Clube do Recife is on the verge of strengthening its attack with a proven goal scorer. Juan Ignácio Ramirez, more simply known as Ignácio Ramirez, is poised to lead the line as the club’s new centre forward.
He combines domestic success in Uruguay’s top flight with spells in France’s Ligue 2, Argentina’s Primera División and Chile’s top division. Approaching his 29th birthday, he brings a blend of aerial dominance, intelligent movement and a keen eye for goal.
Fans and bettors from Non Gamstop Bookies can look forward to his journey through Montevideo, his standout seasons at Nacional, his overseas ventures, his signature playing style and the impact he could have under the floodlights in Recife.
Early career in Uruguay
Ramirez began his professional journey in Montevideo. He rose through the ranks at Liverpool FC (Montevideo). He played for their under‑19s and made his senior debut in 2014. During his first spell at Liverpool, he showed promise but needed more game time.
Loan to France
In summer 2016, Ramirez moved on loan to SC Bastia in Ligue 2. The experience proved challenging: he adapted to a new language, culture, and style of play while facing a physical league and fierce competition for starting spots. Despite limited playing time, mainly from the bench, he managed to score two goals and provide one assist in 12 appearances. His outings offered glimpses of technical skill, but he struggled for consistency. By early 2017, the loan ended by mutual agreement, and he returned to Montevideo to rebuild his confidence.
Return and breakthrough
Back at Liverpool FC (Montevideo) in mid-2017, Ramirez seized his chance. As a regular starter, he developed a potent partnership with senior strikers. Over the course of two seasons, he scored 15 goals in 38 league matches. Many of those strikes came in key fixtures, including decisive goals in derbies and cup ties. His improved movement, sharper finishing and aerial power earned praise from fans and coaches alike. Scouts across South America closely tracked his progress.
Rise at Nacional
In mid‑2020, Ramirez switched to Club Nacional de Football. There he reached a new level. He scored 20 goals in 31 league games in his first season. His tall frame and pace allowed him to hold up play and also get behind defences.
Key achievements at Nacional:
- Segunda División title in 2020–21 season.
- Top scorer for Nacional in 2021–22 with 20 goals.
- Named in the league team of the year.
Move to Argentina and Chile
In mid‑2022, Ramirez moved to Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina. The transfer fee was reported to be in excess of £1 million. He faced tough defences in the Argentine Primera División, but still found the net regularly.
- He scored 10 league goals in 28 appearances.
- He supplied 5 assists to help his side qualify for continental competition.
In early 2025 Ramirez joined Everton de Viña del Mar on loan. That spell saw him adapt to Chilean football and maintain his scoring rate:
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Chilean Primera | 17 | 4 | 2 |
Style of play
Ramirez is a traditional centre forward. His main traits include:
- Aerial strength: He wins most of his headers in the penalty area.
- Positioning: He knows where to be at key moments.
- Hold‑up play: He shields the ball well and brings teammates into play.
- Finishing: He is clinical with both feet in and around the box.
His physical presence allows Sport’s wingers to deliver crosses with confidence. He also works hard off the ball, pressing defenders and tracking back when needed.
What Ramirez offers Sport
Sport needs a reliable goal source in Brazil’s top flight. Ramirez has demonstrated his ability to score in various leagues. He commands respect from defenders and can link play effectively.
Strengths for Sport’s tactics
- Target man: He gives the side a clear focal point in attack.
- Experience: He has played in South America and Europe.
- Adaptability: He has adjusted quickly to new teams.
- Mental toughness: He recovered form after the French spell.
Career summary table
| Season | Club | League | Apps | Goals |
| 2014–16 | Liverpool FC (Montevideo) | Uruguayan Primera | 38 | 15 |
| 2016–17 | SC Bastia (loan) | Ligue 2 | 12 | 2 |
| 2017–20 | Liverpool FC (Montevideo) | Uruguayan Primera | 45 | 18 |
| 2020–22 | Nacional (Montevideo) | Uruguayan Primera | 31 | 20 |
| 2022–25 | Newell’s Old Boys | Argentine Primera | 28 | 10 |
| 2025 | Everton de Viña del Mar (loan) | Chilean Primera | 17 | 4 |
Outlook and Expectations
Sport’s coaching staff expect Ramirez to hit the ground running. His arrival should ease the burden on existing forwards. He will compete for the starting spot alongside Pablo and Paciência. His presence may also allow the team to vary attacking patterns.
Fans can look forward to:
- A more direct style when needed.
- Improved hold‑up play to create chances for midfield runners.
- Greater threat from set pieces.
Ramirez must adapt to the pace of Brazilian football. He must build an understanding with his new teammates quickly. If he fulfils his potential, Sport could climb further up the standings.
Conclusion
Ignácio Ramirez offers Sport Clube do Recife a proven goal‑scorer with varied experience. His profile fits the need for a classic centre forward in Série A. Supporters will hope he brings consistency and an aerial threat. His career to date shows resilience and steady progress. Now it is time to see how he performs in Pernambuco. Good luck to the new number nine.
FAQ
Who is Ignácio Ramirez?
Ignácio Ramirez is a 28-year-old Uruguayan centre forward. He began his career at Liverpool FC (Montevideo) and later played in France, Argentina and Chile.
What clubs has he played for?
He has played for Liverpool FC (Montevideo), SC Bastia (loan), Nacional, Newell’s Old Boys and Everton de Viña del Mar (loan).
What are his main strengths?
He excels in aerial duels, has strong positioning, holds up play effectively and finishes clinically.
How many goals did he score at Nacional?
He scored 20 goals in 31 league games during the 2021–22 season for Nacional.
What is his record in Chile?
In 17 matches for Everton de Viña del Mar, he scored four goals and provided two assists.
Why is he important for Sport Clube do Recife?
Sport needed a reliable target man to boost their attack. Ramirez brings proven scoring ability and physical presence.
