Esteban Paredes criticises Pulgar, says he would not call him up again | OneFootball

Esteban Paredes has criticised Flamengo midfielder Erick Pulgar over his refusal to join recent Chile squads, and said he would not pick him again. Speaking on Tipsters, the former national team striker voiced strong concerns about the decision.

Paredes argued that if Pulgar is staying away because of criticism or fear of being booed, it reflects mental weakness. He added that footballers must accept scrutiny and that playing for the national side should come from personal conviction, not obligation.

Despite a good spell at Flamengo, Pulgar has been absent from recent Chile lists, with La Roja missing the World Cup and playing only friendlies. Chile coach Nicolás Córdova revealed the player declined a call-up, while federation president Pablo Milad said the decision involved discomfort over how Pulgar and his family were treated.

In a message, Pulgar said there was full respect and no issue with Córdova after a recent visit. He stressed he is not driven by praise or criticism, and asked for attention to focus on the young players now being called, their stories and paths.

Pulgar last played for Chile in October 2024 in World Cup qualifying, starting in 2-1 and 4-0 defeats by Bolivia and Colombia.

He joined Flamengo from Fiorentina in July 2022 for 2.8 million euros, R$ 14.96 million. He has 164 appearances, six goals and nine assists, and has won two Copas do Brasil, two Libertadores, the 2025 Brasileirão, the 2025 Supercopa do Brasil and three Cariocas.

Source: Coluna Do Fla

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”