Fossati Opens Up on Grimaldo’s Absence and Cueva’s Musical Pursuits
Former Peruvian national team coach Jorge fossati has shed light on his controversial decision to leave joao grimaldo out of the squad during his tenure. The Uruguayan tactician, known for his direct approach, addressed the criticism surrounding Grimaldo’s limited playing time, explaining that the young forward’s development required a different approach.
“It’s easy to say Joao Grimaldo wasn’t given enough opportunities,” Fossati stated in an interview with TV Peru Deportes. ”People didn’t see the full picture, the team’s dynamics, the minutes he played and didn’t play. He’s a 20-year-old who needed to establish himself at his new club.”
Fossati drew parallels with Piero Quispe, another young player who initially struggled to break into the starting lineup but eventually flourished under his guidance. He emphasized that his decisions were based on the team’s needs and not personal preferences.
“Who declared Piero Quispe to the national team when I arrived? he wasn’t a starter, he played and didn’t play with me, he started during the year,” Fossati explained. “In the national team, who started as a beginner? We’re talking about choices and options. I have to make decisions as there are other players who deserve it too. I don’t do things for sympathy or because it looks good for someone.”
Beyond Grimaldo, Fossati also addressed the situation of Christian Cueva, a talented midfielder who has been juggling his football career with a burgeoning music career. While acknowledging Cueva’s musical talent, Fossati urged him to prioritize his football commitments.
“As a singer, he’s hungry,” Fossati said. “It’s clear he’s committed, but that doesn’t mean he can’t go out with his partner or even sing with her. the professional part cannot be neglected for a minute. Christian Cueva needs to return to the level we all know.”
Fossati’s tenure with the Peruvian national team ended amidst a string of disappointing results. Despite the frustration of leaving the team in a precarious position, Fossati expressed his desire to return to coaching in the future.
“The same thing is the frustration of not continuing to choose,not continuing this process,” he admitted. “Maybe one day I’ll get the chance to coach the national team again and I’ll do it well. That day everything will happen.”
The peruvian Football Federation is currently searching for a new coach to lead the team in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The ‘Bicolor’ faces a daunting task to secure a spot in the tournament, needing to climb out of last place in the South American standings.
Fossati on Grimaldo and Cueva: A Look at Coaching decisions and Priorities
Time.news Editor: Coach Fossati, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. Your tenure with the Peruvian national team was certainly a rollercoaster. Let’s delve into some of the key decisions you made during your time at the helm.
Jorge Fossati: My pleasure.
Time.news Editor: There was considerable debate surrounding your decision to limit joao Grimaldo’s playing time. Many felt he deserved more opportunities. How woudl you respond to that criticism?
Jorge Fossati: It’s easy to say a player wasn’t given enough opportunities from the outside looking in. People didn’t see the full picture – the team dynamics, the minutes he played, the minutes he didn’t play. Joao is a 20-year-old who needed to establish himself at his new club. Remember, Piero Quispe was in a similar position when I arrived. He wasn’t a starter initially, but he came on in matches, started at times during the year, and eventually blossomed. It’s about making choices and options that benefit the team as a whole.
Time.news editor: You seem to have a specific approach to nurturing young talent. Can you elaborate on that?
jorge Fossati: Every player is diffrent. Some need time to adjust,to find their footing. My job is to assess each player’s individual needs and create a path for their development. I don’t make decisions based on popularity or personal preferences. It’s about what’s best for the team.
Time.news Editor: Shifting gears slightly, Christian Cueva’s dual pursuits of football and music have been a topic of discussion. What were your thoughts on this situation?
Jorge Fossati: Christian is a incredibly talented musician,and he’s clearly passionate about it. But as a professional footballer, he needs to prioritize his football commitments. There’s a delicate balance to strike, and he needs to ensure the professional part of his career doesn’t suffer. we all know the level Christian is capable of reaching, and I believe he can get back there.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the team’s current situation.
Jorge Fossati: It’s undeniably challenging.
Time.news Editor: What advice would you give the Peruvian Football Federation as they search for your successor?
Jorge Fossati: Focus on a coach who understands the team’s needs, who can build trust with the players, and who is passionate about bringing success to the Peruvian national team.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your time and insights, Coach Fossati.
