While River tries to recover from a difficult start to the semester, Juan Fernando Quintero has already begun a new stage in his career. Just two days after terminating his contract with the club by mutual agreement, the Colombian reappeared publicly, spoke about his departure, and made it clear that, despite the outcome, his affection for the institution remains intact.
The midfielder participated in the tribute match for Macnelly Torres in Medellín and, once the match was over, referred for the first time to his disassociation from the Millonario. "I am very grateful for everything. Situations arise in which one, as a football player, has to make decisions, and that was the case", he expressed in an interview with ESPN.
Far from fueling a controversy, Quintero insisted that his relationship with River does not change because of his departure. "The love and the bond will be eternal, everyone knows that. But well, this is football, there are situations in which you have to move on, just like in life. Decisions have to be made. I will always be available and attentive to River", he stated.
His statements came just a few days after he explained the reasons that led him to end his third cycle in Núñez. On that occasion, he had acknowledged that he had footballing differences with Eduardo Coudet and that he did not feel like a priority for the coach, which ultimately tipped the scales towards an early exit.
In fact, the Colombian had denied the coach's version regarding the date he was supposed to rejoin training after the 2026 World Cup. He explained that the return for the end of July had already been agreed upon with the management and not with the coaching staff. He also stated that, had he been needed, he would have interrupted his vacation. "If I were a priority, I would have been here within 24 hours. If they need me, I will always be there. After the World Cup, one wants to rest, but I never stopped working. If I were a priority, I would already be there", he had claimed.
With his time at River now concluded, Quintero is now considering various proposals to continue his career. Atlético Mineiro is among the interested clubs, although in recent hours Cagliari has gained momentum as a possible destination. The Italian team, where his compatriot Yerry Mina plays, is looking to reach an agreement to sign the midfielder, who could thus begin his fourth experience in European football after his stints with Pescara, Porto, and Rennes.
