Soccer player wearing a red América de Cali jersey with a River Plate crest in the background
ARGENTINA

Juanfer Quintero did not rule out returning to River for a third spell

The Colombian cast doubt on his future at América de Cali and spoke about his special bond with Millonarios

With an eye on the upcoming transfer window, River is once again excited about the possibility of bringing Juan Fernando Quintero back. The Colombian, by his own decision, is reportedly close to ending his time at América de Cali and has made a statement that rekindles the Millonario's hopes.

After the agonizing draw against Racing de Montevideo, which kept his team alive in the Sudamericana, the left-footer spoke to the press and cast doubt on his future at the Colombian club.

Two players compete for the ball during a match, one wearing a red uniform and the other wearing a white and green uniform, in a soccer stadium.
América de Cali remains in contention in the Sudamericana | La Derecha Diario

"I'll see what decision to make. The most important thing is that we qualified. We have to focus on the domestic tournament. When the semester ends, personally, I'll look at what I'm going to do," Juanfer said from the field, making it clear that the mid-year break will be key in determining his future.

When asked more directly about River, the player replied: "Let me finish this match. We'll determine it. Well, everyone knows I'm connected to River."

It should be clarified that Quintero and Racing, his previous club, agreed that he would not return to the Millonario, at least in the short term. This "gentlemen's agreement" would prevent him from returning to the club he loves in this transfer window, but since the amount of time that must pass since his departure from the Academia was not specified, he could be an option in the first transfer window of 2026.

Player celebrating enthusiastically with a soccer trophy while wearing a flag over his shoulders, surrounded by teammates and fans in the stadium.
Quintero couldn't return to River in the short term | La Derecha Diario

América de Cali's coach also addressed the issue

Jorge Polilla da Silva, coach of the Colombian team, was asked about the player's comments and did not avoid the situation. "These are statements that will have an impact, will cause concern, but there are personal matters one can't get involved in. There are decisions that players make under their own responsibility, knowing their reasons," he said.

"I see him as very committed; he was one of the players who most wanted to continue in the international tournament and this will certainly cause concern. For now, he's still with us and unfortunately he's going to the national team now, he's impossible to replace and we'll have to look for different alternatives. We have to let him be, he'll surely talk to the directors. I respect him a lot," he concluded.

Two men smile while wearing sportswear from the same team in an outdoor setting.
Polilla believes that Quintero is irreplaceable | La Derecha Diario
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