Talking about the successes of Deportivo Pereira would, without a doubt, refer to Juan Camilo Hernández, a fundamental pillar to achieve promotion, like Harlen Castillo, who saved the penalties in the final match. Harlen did it again, this time in the BetPlay League to give the Matecaña team their first star, but without ‘Cucho’ as a player on the squad. But, like Hernández and Castillo, Leonardo Castro also made his mark as the title scorer with 15 goals.
However, Juan Camilo Hernández, now in the Columbus Crew, did not put aside his love for Deportivo Pereira. He accompanied him through thick and thin, especially in the home runs and in the final against Deportivo Independiente Medellín. Leonardo Castro signed with Millonarios as was widely speculated before Luis Carlos Ruiz arrived in Bogotá. Due to the cost, Leo Castro had to wait for his opportunity to reach the albiazul team.
That turn came for 2023 as well as the return of another idol like Fernando Uribe. Leonardo Castro said goodbye to the Pereiran fans with the following message, “the dream of becoming champion with the team of my love”, in addition to thanking the coaching staff and fans.
“I want to thank the fans for trusting me, for welcoming me with open arms, for allowing me to grow, for picking me up and welcoming my family. I leave with tears in my eyes and with a happy heart because God gave me the opportunity to come back and make history. I carry you all in my heart.” Juan Camilo Hernández responded by wishing him all the luck.
“I love you idol. He looks calm and triumphs. Thank you ”, short and concise, but showing him his affection for everything he left in Pereira. In turn, Leonardo Castro replied, “Thank you very much, idol. Someday we will share the field again ”.