Pékerman’s Bold Move: How he Shaped Juan Fernando quintero’s Career
Argentine Coach Reveals How He Championed the Colombian Midfielder.
José Pékerman, the former Colombia national team coach, played a pivotal role in shaping the career of Juan Fernando Quintero, the gifted midfielder. Pékerman, known for his keen eye for talent, revealed that he actively pushed for Quintero’s inclusion in Colombia’s youth and senior squads, even when the player had limited playing time at the club level.
Early Admiration and Advocacy
Pékerman’s admiration for Quintero was evident from the beginning. he first noticed Quintero while the player was on the bench for Atlético Nacional in Medellín. despite Quintero’s limited minutes, Pékerman was captivated by his talent, stating, “Colombia is one of the few countries where the 10s are still around.” He soon called him up for FIFA dates to get him acclimated with the senior national team.
Intervening for a Key Tournament
Pékerman’s commitment whent beyond mere observation. He recounted how he intervened to ensure Quintero’s participation in the 2013 South American U-20 Championship.After learning that Quintero had been cut from the squad just weeks before the tournament, Pékerman personally contacted the U-20 coach, Carlos ‘Piscis’ Restrepo and advocated for his inclusion. Restrepo initially stated that all the spots where filled on the roster. Pékerman encouraged Quintero to be prepared for an chance and demonstrate why he belonged on the national team.
Champion’s Genesis
Pékerman’s faith in Quintero was vindicated. In the tournament held in Argentina, Quintero not only secured his place but also emerged as the star player. He led the team with five goals and was named the tournament’s best player as Colombia won its first-ever South American U-20 title.
A Lasting Impact
Pékerman’s early faith and active support laid the foundation for Quintero’s triumphant career,demonstrating the profound impact a coach can have on a young player’s trajectory. His influence extended to the senior national team, where Quintero became a key player, frequently enough partnering with James Rodríguez, another player Pékerman greatly admired.
beyond talent identification, what specific actions did Pékerman take to champion Juan Fernando quintero’s career growth?
Pékerman’s Bold Move: How he Shaped Juan Fernando quintero’s Career
Argentine Coach Reveals How He Championed the Colombian midfielder.
José Pékerman, the former Colombia national team coach, played a pivotal role in shaping the career of Juan Fernando Quintero, the gifted midfielder. Pékerman,known for his keen eye for talent,revealed that he actively pushed for Quintero’s inclusion in Colombia’s youth and senior squads,even when the player had limited playing time at the club level.
Early Admiration and Advocacy
Pékerman’s admiration for Quintero was evident from the beginning. he first noticed Quintero while the player was on the bench for Atlético Nacional in Medellín. despite Quintero’s limited minutes, Pékerman was captivated by his talent, stating, “Colombia is one of the few countries where the 10s are still around.” He soon called him up for FIFA dates to get him acclimated with the senior national team.
Intervening for a Key Tournament
Pékerman’s commitment whent beyond mere observation. He recounted how he intervened to ensure Quintero’s participation in the 2013 South American U-20 Championship.After learning that Quintero had been cut from the squad just weeks before the tournament, Pékerman personally contacted the U-20 coach, Carlos ‘Piscis’ Restrepo and advocated for his inclusion. Restrepo initially stated that all the spots where filled on the roster. Pékerman encouraged quintero to be prepared for an chance and demonstrate why he belonged on the national team.
Champion’s Genesis
Pékerman’s faith in Quintero was vindicated. In the tournament held in Argentina, Quintero not only secured his place but also emerged as the star player. He led the team with five goals and was named the tournament’s best player as Colombia won its first-ever South American U-20 title.
A Lasting Impact
Pékerman’s early faith and active support laid the foundation for Quintero’s triumphant career,demonstrating the profound impact a coach can have on a young player’s trajectory. His influence extended to the senior national team, where Quintero became a key player, frequently enough partnering with James Rodríguez, another player Pékerman greatly admired.
Q&A: Unpacking Pékerman’s Influence on Quintero
Q: Where did José Pékerman first spot Juan Fernando Quintero?
A: Pékerman first noticed quintero while he was on the bench for Atlético Nacional in Medellín. This highlights Pékerman’s ability to see potential even when a player isn’t getting regular game time.
Q: What tournament did Pékerman specifically intervene to get Quintero into?
A: The 2013 South American U-20 Championship, where Quintero went on to become the star player.
Q: How did Quintero perform in the 2013 South American U-20 Championship?
A: Quintero led the team with five goals and was named the tournament’s best player,playing a crucial role in Colombia’s historic win.
Q: Besides Quintero, who was another player Pékerman greatly admired?
A: James Rodríguez, who frequently enough partnered with Quintero in the senior national team.
Q: What can we learn from Pékerman’s approach?
A: Coaches should be willing to advocate for players with potential, even if they are not yet established. A coach’s belief can be a key factor in a young player’s development. Pay close attention to youth tournaments; they often feature future stars.
Pékerman’s story underscores the pivotal role a coach’s belief and intervention can play in a young player’s career. His actions with Juan Fernando Quintero provide valuable insights into talent development and the lasting impact of mentorship.
