Antonio Valencia says he is not xenophobic after criticizing a naturalized citizen

Former Ecuadorian footballer Antonio Valencia criticized Argentine goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez, a nationalized Ecuadorian and captain of the Ecuadorian group in a current match against Argentina, which Argentina won 0–1 through a goal by Ángel Di María. Valencia made it clear that he is not xenophobic and apologized if he offended anyone, expressing his view that an Ecuadorian-born participant should be the captain of the group.

Valencia, who performed for Manchester United and Gallos Blancos de Querétaro, expressed his respect for Galíndez’s efforts but emphasized the importance of national gamers leading the group. He also described his personal experience as captain of Manchester United for several years without points.

After the match, Galíndez noted that Enner Valencia, the current captain and all-time top scorer of the Ecuadorian group, had chosen him to put on the armband for Argentina, a call that he greatly appreciated and was happy with. Galíndez, who obtained Ecuadorian nationality in 2019, made his debut for the national group in the 2021 Copa America and has since become a key participant in the ‘Tri’.

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