MEXICO
Jaime Lozano confirms that Julián Quiñones “wants to play for Mexico”
The new head coach of the Mexican national team spoke to the América forward and is expecting him to pick El Tri over Colombia.
Jaime Lozano has confirmed that Julián Quiñones has opted to play for Mexico, not Colombia, ending a tug-of-war over one of Liga MX’s most exciting attackers.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Lozano said that the América forward “feels Mexican.”
“Julián is Mexican,” Lozano told reporters. “We already talked to him, he feels Mexican. He wants to play for Mexico, he identifies with the life opportunity he has received.’’
Quiñones was born in the Colombian town of Magui Payan but has spent his entire professional career in Mexico. He was capped 13 times for the Colombia Under-20 team but has not made an appearance for the senior side, meaning that he is able to declare for Mexico.
When will Julián Quiñones play for Mexico?
While the player’s decision has been made and Colombia have been informed of his intention, he is not yet eligible for selection for Mexico.
Speaking alongside Lozano, Mexican sporting director Duilio Davino added that they are waiting for Quiñones’ paperwork to be completed before he can be added to the squad.
Read more on the Mexico national team
Davino explained: “He let us know his position of wanting to represent Mexico. He is waiting for the naturalization letter. FIFA have already changed the national association, it is just a matter of time.”
Mexico national team fixtures
Lozano was given the job on a permanent basis after leading them to Gold Cup glory earlier this summer. He took over a team that had stalled under previous head coach Diego Cocca and has provided fresh impetus to a talented squad.
Mexico have two fixtures in the upcoming September international break. On September 9 they face Australia, before a game against Uzbekistan on September 12.
As things stand, Quiñones should be eligible for selection by the time those games come around.