Juan Fernando Quintero has officially confirmed his retirement from the AS, bringing an end to an international career that spanned more than a decade. The 33-year-old midfielder made the announcement during an interview on the Win Sports program Saque Largo, nearly two months after Colombia’s elimination from the World Cup.
Juan Fernando Quintero Confirms Retirement From Colombia National Team
According to Quintero, his decision follows the team’s elimination in the round of 16 of the tournament held in United States, Mexico and Canada, where La Tricolor exited following a penalty shootout against Switzerland after a draw.
The player, who is a midfielder for Independiente Medellín, stated that he stepped aside because he felt his time had come, personally feeling that way after the World Cup frustration, and he expressed this to the coaching staff and his teammates.
Frustration and the Decision to Step Aside
Quintero described the deep personal toll of the tournament’s conclusion, noting that the disappointment caused him several sleepless nights. Beyond the emotional weight of the defeat, he emphasized a collective outlook focused on opening doors for younger players within Colombian football.
Quintero explained that the frustration of losing is so immense, generating so many feelings that you cry, noting that in his case he spends three to four nights unable to sleep because he suffers greatly, not just for himself, but for everyone who was there. He added that he is a person who thinks a great deal about the collective, seeing the suffering of his friends, and that there are times when one says it is good to step out and give the opportunity for another to arrive.
The player confirmed that he communicated his choice directly to head coach Néstor Lorenzo, his coaching staff, and his teammates immediately after the tournament concluded in July. He expressed his appreciation for Lorenzo, wishing him success in upcoming campaigns.
Legacy and International Career Statistics
Quintero departs the national team with a documented history spanning various major tournaments and coaching eras. He made his senior debut in 2012 under manager José Pékerman during a friendly match against Camerún.
Over 14 years with the senior side, Quintero accumulated 53 appearances, scoring 6 goals and providing 12 assists. His career with the senior national team included appearances across multiple global and continental competitions:
- World Cups: Participated in the 2014, 2018, and 2026 tournaments, highlighted by a memorable goal against Costa de Marfil in Brazil and a free-kick goal beneath the defensive wall against Japan in Russia. At the 2026 tournament, he served as an alternative to James Rodríguez, appearing off the bench in four of Colombia’s five matches.
- Copa América: Competed in multiple editions, including the 2024 tournament where Colombia finished as runners-up.
- Youth Categories: Won the 2013 South American Under-20 Championship in Argentina and played in the Under-17 and Under-20 World Cup levels.
Throughout his senior national team career, Quintero played under managers José Néstor Pekerman, Reinaldo Rueda, and Néstor Lorenzo, experiencing a temporary absence during Carlos Queiroz‘s tenure due to a ligament injury.
