Néiser Villareal unveiled: picks Cruzeiro, chats with club legend | OneFootball

Cruzeiro officially presented, on the afternoon of this Tuesday (2), at Toca da Raposa II, the forward Néiser Villareal, a confirmed reinforcement for the 2026 season. During his first interview as a player for the celestial team, the Colombian spoke about his decision to join the Minas Gerais club.

The player caught attention mainly for his performances with the Colombian Under-20 National Team, both in the South American Championship and especially in the World Cup. The forward had been receiving inquiries from European teams and still stated that he saw Cruzeiro as the best project to continue his development and start his journey in professional football.

“What caught my attention was the project they presented to me, which I really liked. In Colombia, we see Cruzeiro as one of the biggest clubs in Brazil, with a huge fan base and an impressive structure,” highlighted the forward.

He also commented on his playing style and his desire to evolve in the stellar squad. “I come to work, learn a lot, and help the team. I really enjoy playing in attack. Regarding the five goals I scored recently, without my teammates and the entire staff, it wouldn't have been possible.”

Villareal also revealed that he briefly spoke with former forward Aristizábal, who had a memorable stint at the club. “I only managed to talk a little with Aristizábal, and he told me about Cruzeiro, about the fans, who are fantastic. Now it's time to work to give my best.”

Regarding the turbulent period experienced in Colombia, the young player preferred not to elaborate. “It's something that's already behind me. Now my focus is on Cruzeiro and doing things well here.”

Excited about the squad he will join, the forward mentioned some of the teammates he hopes to learn from. “The club has players of great quality, like Kaio Jorge, Sinisterra, Romero… Arriving at the start of the season will help me a lot to grow with them.”

Villareal has been in Belo Horizonte since the 26th, when he joined the club after terminating his contract with Millionários. The young forward, 20 years old, had already agreed to a pre-contract with the club in September. With the early termination, the definitive agreement was signed, establishing a five-season bond with the celestial team.

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