In a candid interview, Colombian football veteran Juan Cuadrado has offered a rare glimpse into the emotional complexities of his departure from Juventus, the club he called home for eight illustrious years. His revelations paint a picture of loyalty, lingering affection, and the stark realities of modern football transfers.
A Love Affair with the Old Lady
For nearly a decade, Juan Cuadrado was more than just a player for Juventus; he was an integral part of its fabric. “Juventus is the team of my heart,” he stated, a sentiment echoed by countless fans who admired his tireless runs and infectious smile. His time in Turin was marked by immense success, accumulating numerous trophies and creating a lasting legacy. More personally, it was where his children were born, rooting him deeply in the city and its culture.
This profound connection made his exit all the more poignant. Cuadrado openly admits he harbored a strong desire to continue his journey with the Bianconeri. “I wanted and could have stayed,” he asserted, implying that his physical condition and commitment were unwavering. Yet, the narrative of his departure took an unexpected turn, highlighting the often-impersonal nature of club management in the high-stakes world of professional football.
The Unexpected Announcement: A Digital Decree
The veteran winger expressed genuine hurt over how his contract non-renewal was communicated. Rather than a personal phone call or a face-to-face discussion, the news was disseminated via social media. “Suddenly, the club announced on social media that they would not renew my contract. I was upset; they could have called me and told me,” Cuadrado shared.
Enduring Affection and Fan Loyalty
Despite the abrupt nature of his departure and the subsequent move to arch-rivals Inter Milan, Cuadrado insists that his bond with the majority of Juventus supporters remains strong. While acknowledging some fans “whistled” him for joining Inter, he firmly believes the broader fanbase understands and appreciates his contributions. “People understood and love me,” he said, citing warm interactions with fans during visits to his mother in Turin as proof of their enduring affection.
This dynamic highlights the complex relationship between players and supporters. Loyalty, in football, is often a two-way street, and while professional decisions can be met with initial disappointment, genuine respect for a player`s history and dedication frequently prevails.
The Inter Chapter: A High-Level Gambit Marred by Injury
Following his Juventus exit, Cuadrado made the pragmatic decision to join Inter Milan, driven by a clear objective: “I went to Inter to stay at high levels.” At 35, the desire to compete at the pinnacle of European football is understandable. However, this ambition was unfortunately curtailed by injury, limiting his playing time significantly. His stint at Inter, though brief, underscored the physical demands of top-tier football, especially for a player in the twilight of his career.
The football world is a relentless conveyor belt of talent, where even a seasoned veteran`s intentions can be thwarted by the unforgiving nature of the game. Cuadrado`s narrative is a testament to the human element beneath the headlines – the ambition, the disappointment, and the enduring love for a sport that demands everything from its participants.