Batista to youngsters: Play well, your chance will come | OneFootball

In an exclusive interview with Dsports Radio, Fernando “Bocha” Batista reflected on his tenure as head coach of the Venezuelan National Team, making it clear that although the process left positive feelings, missing out on the next World Cup remains unfinished business. “It still hurts,” the coach confessed about the elimination, although he emphasized that the team competed at the highest level until the final matchday.

Assessment of the process and the South American factor

For Batista, the performance of the “Vinotinto” improved over time, highlighting their role in the Qualifiers and the Copa América. According to the coach, the team managed to stand toe-to-toe with any opponent. In this context, he defended the value of regional players: “In Europe they have the infrastructure, but we have the raw material,” he asserted, stressing that player development in Argentina or Brazil is still superior to that in Europe.

Firm stance on “Parental Authority”

One of the most tense points of the interview was the early departure of young players abroad. “Bocha” was critical of the use of parental authority, appealing for gratitude towards the training institutions. “If they come looking for you, let it be above board,” he stated, assuring that natural talent always ends up opening doors without the need for legal conflicts.

The desire to return home

Finally, the coach did not hide his interest in the local league. When asked about the possibility of working in his home country, he was direct: “I have no problem coaching in Argentine football.” While acknowledging the complexity of the environment, he described it as a “beautiful” challenge that he does not rule out for his professional future.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.