Juan Fernando quintero It’s a Racing flagship that has become an international hero again after three decades, but its name keeps changing A riverwhere he made history and scored one of the most critically important goals in the club’s history. And the footballer himself once again spoke highly of the Millonario and his coach, Marcelo gallardo, while referring to his future.
“Real Madrid is practically a club in that sector. I realized that River was my place in the world: it gave me the recognition that I couldn’t have after wandering around some clubs in Europe. River gave me that status as a player and as a person: what I am today, I owe to the club. “It’s not a secret that it’s my house…”,the Colombian star revealed in an interview with the podcast Directeddirected by Foquita Farfán.
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And when asked about a possible retirement in Núñez, Quintero said: “I am always grateful to River, it is my place in the world, I love them, I love them very much. Tell them I will always be grateful .it is a secret to everyone that ”The river is my home,where I made myself known in Argentina and in world football.”
“I think it’s not a secret, I said at the time that I wanted to retire there, but we don’t know the twists and turns of football and life. I have left the best memories,” admitted the Colombian,who has a contract with the Academy until December next year,” concluded the brand new CONMEBOL Sudamericana champion with the Academy,who played 36 game in 2024 and scored 8 goals.
His love for gallardo, his “father”, and a funny story
In the same interview, Juanfer praised Gallardo again, who he was at the same time at River and who he marked several times as the main man in his career: “I have expressed it a lot, He is my football and life dad, becuase he is a man I can be with, talk to him as if he were a normal person“.
“We always try to be natural, he knows he is my father, I love him, I love him, I didn’t fight like anyone else, I keep arguing and arguing usually because we have that dialog, but for me he is my father. titles, including the CONMEBOL Libertadores 2018, where he scored a goal in the final against Boca.
Quintero told an unmissable story from 2019, the year his stunning free-kick goal against Racing was nominated for the Puskás award, which was beaten by Romanian-Hungarian Daniel Zsori in a shortlist that also included Lionel Messi.
“That goal was classified as one of the best of the year. It hurt me not to go to the big show because there was a man called Marcelo Gallardo, who is sick. We were playing in a semi-final (NdR: the gala on the day after the match vs Vélez and a week before the semi-final of the Cup against Boca) and he told me that I had to wait and that I couldn’t go to Milan. I watched it because… I had the chance to be there… Well brother, it’s all right, thank you. You are sick brother, I love you very much, but you are sick” finished the colombian national team footballer.
After River’s late win against Estudiantes in La Plata, the coach was consulted about his alleged interest in bringing back Enzo Pérez, who is currently at Pincha, and was emphatic in his response: “The game just finished. You have to respect Enzo Pérez and especially Estuiantes, the club where he is today. I’m not going to tell you more than that. Today he is at Estudiantes, which is also a great club.”
And when there was another question in the same direction, but regarding Colombian talent, the Doll expressed: “You ask me the same thing and I’m going to give you the same answer. Let’s respect.”
– How has Juan Fernando quintero’s transition between clubs affected his career and legacy?
Interview: Teh Time.news Editor Meets Juan Fernando Quintero
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, everyone, to our special interview segment. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with an expert in football history and Argentine culture, Dr. Lucia Ramirez. We’re here to discuss the phenomenon of Juan Fernando Quintero, a player who has re-emerged as an icon for Racing Club and made significant contributions to River Plate, where he became a legend. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Ramirez.
Dr. Lucia Ramirez (DLR): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an significant figure in Argentine football.
TNE: Let’s dive in! Quintero made headlines after scoring a crucial goal in the Copa Libertadores final a few years back. How has this goal impacted his legacy in Argentine football?
DLR: Quintero’s goal was transformative, not just for him but for the entire River Plate community. It was a decisive moment that solidified his place in the club’s history,especially considering how critical it was in that high-stakes match. The emotional resonance of that goal has made him a beloved figure among fans, and it’s a moment that will be replayed in highlights for years to come.
TNE: And now, Quintero is treated as a flagship player at Racing.What does this transition say about his versatility and resilience?
DLR: It speaks volumes about his adaptability. Transitioning to another top club like Racing demonstrates his capability to rise to the occasion, regardless of the circumstances. Players like Quintero, who can adapt to different playing styles and environments, are invaluable. It’s a testament to his hard work and commitment to the sport.
TNE: The article mentions that he has become an ”international hero.” In what ways has Quintero transcended local fandom to accomplish this?
DLR: Quintero’s technical skill and flair on the pitch resonate with audiences far beyond Argentina. His performances in international tournaments put him on a global stage, attracting attention from fans and analysts alike. Additionally, his journey from a star player in Colombia to making a name for himself at River Plate has captured the hearts of fans across Latin America and beyond. He represents hope and talent, inspiring young players with dreams of making it big.
TNE: Quintero has certainly spoken fondly about both River Plate and Racing, despite the rivalry. What does this mindset reveal about his character?
DLR: That mindset reflects a maturity and recognition for the culture of football beyond just personal accolades. He understands the emotional ties that fans have to their clubs, and by expressing gratitude for his time at River, he shows that he values his journey. It’s indicative of someone who is grounded and recognizes the significance of every chapter in their career—not merely focused on individual success, but also on building a legacy.
TNE: As an expert, how do you see Quintero’s influence shaping the future of young players in Argentina?
DLR: Quintero is a phenomenal role model. He embodies the belief that hard work, dedication, and adaptability can lead to grate success. Young players can look up to his journey from an emerging talent to a key figure in some of the most important matches in Argentine football history. His story—including his ups and downs—teaches that resilience is crucial, and it encourages young athletes to pursue their goals relentlessly.
TNE: Before we wrap up, what do you believe is the next chapter for Quintero?
DLR: If he continues on this trajectory, I believe he could further cement his status in Argentina’s football lore. Whether through more crucial performances for Racing or even a potential return to international play, I anticipate he’ll remain a significant presence on and off the field. Furthermore, if he transitions into a leadership role in the future, either as a captain or coach, his influence could shape the next generation of players.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Ramirez, for sharing your insights on Juan Fernando Quintero.It’s been a pleasure discussing one of football’s most dynamic characters.
DLR: Thank you! It was a joy to explore this fascinating topic with you. Looking forward to the future of Argentine football!