Colombia National Team: Statements by Juan Guillermo Cuadrado on Referents and New Players | Colombia selection

John William Squareone of the references that Néstor Lorenzo cited in the Colombian National Team to face Guatemala and Mexico, spoke this Tuesday with the media about the process that formally began this week and with which they point to Copa América 2024 and the 2026 World Cup.

The Juventus player from Italy referred to the presence of references such as David Ospina, James Rodríguez and Falcao García, a group of which he is also a part, and warned that a position must be fought for.

“Every day we have to convince ourselves more of the talent that Colombia has. I think it starts from there, knowing that we are winners and if you think about it, it generates sadness seeing the talent that there is and not being part of the Cup, but it is a learning experience and It should start from there. Being able to train and play every game with the hope of being in the World Cup again and fighting for the Copa América because we have a team with great players,” he mentioned.

For Cuadrado, the presence of experienced players is key in any team and Colombia was no stranger this time: “I think there is always a need for experienced players who can contribute to the group and not only in football but also internally. It is important in each team and the referents should not be given anything, they have to work and earn a position to be in the national team because there are young players who want to be and contribute. The experienced must be but also earn the position”.

And he mentioned the reasons why leading players should be in the processes. “Because of the way of playing and sometimes having a break. Sometimes you need that break that Falcao and James give, that manage situations and not only on the field of play but also off it. The experience they are acquiring it is important to transfer it to young players”.

Juan Guillermo also celebrated that it is Néstor Lorenzo who directs him in this new process. He knows them well and they feel comfortable. “It’s a plus because the teacher is well trained and knows us very well, he knows the position that each player likes and where he feels comfortable. It’s important for us because he’s going to bring great things to the National Team. We have full confidence in him (…) We have been working in small spaces and with a lot of intensity, but what is coming is more organized work with an emphasis on matches. The teacher wants to have an identity and is going to work on that.”

Finally, after being consulted about the new figures mentioned by the national coach, such as Jhon Jáder Durán, Óscar Estupiñán and Jorge Carrascal, to name a few, Cuadrado indicated that “almost everyone who is here has quality.” He also predicted great achievements for them and advised them: “if they do it with passion, intensity and the desire to earn a place in five or ten minutes, I think they all have quality and the important thing is that if we unite it it will bring benefits”.