At 26, Yerry Mina wore the jersey of big teams such as Santa Fe, Palmeiras, Barcelona and Everton. With a presence in England, the Guachené-born defender, Cauca, became a key player for Carlo Ancelotti both in defense and attack, his large size and ability to remove the ball, allowed him to be decisive in clubs. and in the national team, which makes him a world-renowned player.
Taking advantage of his good individual moment in the service of tofea, the defender spoke with the British medium Talk Sports and recalled his football career, he talked about his beginnings, about the time spent in Barcelona, the Colombian national team, Everton and friend and colleague, James Rodriguez.
the beginning
“Going back to my home, in Columbia, when I was a kid, it was hard to train. We had to go, take a bus or get behind a truck with a trailer in the back that could carry sand or all sorts of things without the driver knowing.“.
“It was difficult. Things were difficult. But what I always say is that those hard times made me strong and it’s something I can be proud and happy about today. I think that what we did and how we spent those moments, like many Colombian footballers, inspires us. “
“Not a day goes by that I don’t wake up and think about my family and the sacrifices they made to try to help me become a professional footballer. When I think of that family, it’s an extra level of inspiration that you draw from those difficult times, “he said.
Barcelona
“It was a wonderful moment, becoming the first Colombian in history to play in Barcelona. Football, like life, gives you many ups and downs. It was a great success when I signed for Barcelona. But for one reason or another, things didn’t work out. I didn’t get the playing time I needed. “
“Your faith helps you in those difficult times. I was very sorry that I didn’t have the opportunity to prove myself and play so often. So look for ways to never give up, to persevere, to train hard, and to push yourself. Sometimes there is no clear explanation why things don’t work, they just don’t work. “
“You get to a point where you want to play regularly and you’re looking for a way out. Fortunately, Everton gave me the opportunity to do so and now I am very focused and positive. ” precise.
Colombia national team – World Cup 2018 Russia
“It was a great tournament for me (World Cup Russia 2018). That spirit of never giving up came into effect in that tournament, I didn’t start the first game, but in a way it pushed and inspired me even more to show my inner strength. So, when I participated in the second game and the rest of the tournament, I had the chance to prove myself. “
“It was a very exciting game against England. I think we showed in that tournament and in that game that we have players who could make a difference. Players like Cuadrado and others, he was a great team. “
“I came to Everton and I didn’t know any English, but my agent taught me a phrase to tell Jordan Pickford, maybe I’ll fix things when we meet.. It was “Hey Jordan, we’re together now!” So it was a small and enjoyable moment when I met Jordan, he recognized him. I’m happy to share a dressing room with him now, instead of making him an opponent “.
Everton – James Rodriguez
“(Everton) We work hard to achieve the same goals together as a group and a team. Every week and every day, we grow to understand each other better and that is really important. We really focus on what the coach wants us to do. In my case, it’s about giving me the strength for the cause and, fortunately, for now, things seem to be going very well.”.
“It’s great that James is here with us right now. I knew him before and now he has become a brother to me, both on and off the field, personally and with my game.. He’s a superior guy. We are very, very happy. Happier than ever. This is a great family and we are very close, “he concluded.