Leandro Sebastián Fernández (born 17 March 1983) is an Argentine former professional footballer who played as a centre-back. Throughout his career, he was known for his strong defensive presence and leadership on the field, playing for several clubs in Argentina, Russia, and Chile, most notably winning two Argentine Primera División titles with Vélez Sarsfield.
Early Life and Club Career
Born in General Cabrera, Córdoba Province, Argentina, Fernández began his football journey in the youth ranks of River Plate, one of Argentina's most prestigious clubs. He made his senior debut for River Plate in 2003, featuring in the first team for two seasons before being loaned out.- River Plate (2003–2005): After progressing through the youth system, Fernández debuted for River Plate's senior team, making 11 league appearances and scoring 1 goal.
- Quilmes (2005–2006): He spent a season on loan at Quilmes Atlético Club, where he gained significant first-team experience, playing 33 league matches and scoring once.
- FC Dinamo Moscow (2006–2008): His performances attracted attention from European clubs, leading to a move to Russian Premier League side Dinamo Moscow in 2006. He became a regular starter during his two-year spell, appearing in 62 league games and scoring 3 goals.
- Gimnasia La Plata (2008–2009): Fernández returned to Argentina on loan, joining Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, where he played 28 league matches.
- Vélez Sarsfield (2009–2012): This period marked the most successful phase of his career. Fernández was an integral part of the Vélez Sarsfield squad that won two Argentine Primera División Clausura titles in 2009 and 2011. He made 109 league appearances, scoring 1 goal, and was a key figure in their defense.
- Godoy Cruz (2012–2013): Following his success at Vélez, he moved to Godoy Cruz, playing 27 league matches.
- Deportes Iquique (2014): Fernández had a brief spell in Chile with Deportes Iquique, where he played 16 league games.
- Later Career (2015–2022): He continued his career in various Argentine clubs, predominantly in the lower divisions, including Comunicaciones, Sportivo Belgrano, Defensores de Belgrano de Villa Ramallo, Argentino de Quilmes, Ferro Carril Sud, San Telmo, Deportivo Armenio, and General Lamadrid before retiring from professional football around 2022.
International Career
Fernández represented Argentina at the youth level, participating in the 2003 FIFA World Youth Championship. He also earned four caps for the senior Argentina national team, making his debut in 2003.Honours
Club- Vélez Sarsfield
- Argentine Primera División: Clausura 2009, Clausura 2011