Rodrigo Sebastián Palacio Alcalde entered professional football in 2001, debuting for Bella Vista de Bahía Blanca at age 19. Known for his distinctive rattail braid, the Argentine striker navigated a multi-national career, notably holding a Spanish passport that allowed him to compete as an EU player throughout his tenure in the Italian Serie A.
Early Development and Domestic Success
After departing Bella Vista, Palacio joined Huracán de Tres Arroyos in 2002, where he played for two years. His performance at Banfield during the 2004 season, where he scored 11 goals in 38 appearances, caught the attention of Boca Juniors. His time at Boca was defined by consistent scoring in continental tournaments, including three goals against Sport Club Internacional in the 2005 Copa Sudamericana and contributions to three Recopa Sudamericana victories.
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Palacio moved to Genoa in July 2009, debuting in Serie A against Roma. During his three seasons with the club, he recorded notable performances, including a brace against Napoli and another against Nocerina in the Coppa Italia. By the end of his final season in 2012, he had reached 100 total appearances for the club. In June 2012, he completed a move to Inter Milan for a reported fee of €10.5 million, signing a three-year deal.
Inter Milan and International Service
At Inter, Palacio became a versatile asset. In a December 2012 Coppa Italia fixture against Hellas Verona, he famously filled in as a goalkeeper for the final 15 minutes after substitutions were exhausted, keeping a clean sheet. His international career included representation for the Argentina national team at the 2006 and 2014 FIFA World Cups, as well as the 2007 Copa América, where he earned a runner-up medal. He also achieved a second-place finish at the 2014 World Cup.
Fast facts
- Full name: Rodrigo Sebastián Palacio Alcalde
- Born: 5 February 1982, Bahía Blanca
- Father: José Ramón Palacio
- Nationality: Argentine
- Primary position: Second striker
- Notable tournament: 2014 FIFA World Cup runner-up
- Club debut: 2001, Bella Vista de Bahía Blanca
Questions readers ask
Did Rodrigo Palacio ever play as a goalkeeper?
Yes. He played the final 15 minutes in goal for Inter Milan against Hellas Verona on 18 December 2012, making a save to maintain a 2–0 victory.
Why was Palacio considered an EU player in Italy?
He held a Spanish passport, which allowed him to be registered as an EU player while competing in the Italian Serie A.
