Pulgar denies Chile issues, tells fans: “Hear it from me” | OneFootball

What did Erick Pulgar say about asking not to be called up to the Chilean National Team?

Despite being given rest by Flamengo, Erick Pulgar is not having a peaceful life during this FIFA international break. After asking not to be called up by the Chilean National Team, the midfielder became the target of criticism from the local press and former players. As a result, the player stated that he has no problems with the Chile team.

— I have no problem with my teammates, and that story some people tried to build simply does not exist. There are personal and professional conversations and decisions that I do not necessarily need to make public — he said, before concluding:

— What bothered me was seeing how a conversation ended up being turned into an explanation I never gave. One thing is to say there is criticism, and something completely different is to say: “Pulgar is not coming because he cannot handle the pressure.” I never said that — Pulgar concluded to ‘O Globo’.

What message did Pulgar have for Chile’s fans?

In addition to denying possible problems with the coach, players, and members of Chile’s staff, Erick Pulgar sent a message to the Chilean fans. In this way, the Flamengo midfielder said that when people want to know what the player thinks, it is better to hear it from him directly.

— When people want to know what Erick Pulgar thinks, the best thing is to listen to Erick Pulgar. Lately, I have learned many things about myself by reading the press, especially some Chilean outlets that confuse me. At times, even I find myself waiting for the next story to find out what I think — he added.

— But seriously, I have enormous respect for the national team and for the Chilean fans. Wearing this shirt has always meant a lot to me. That is why, if one day I have something to explain about my decisions, I would rather do it myself and not let others interpret or invent my reasons — concluded the Flamengo midfielder.

What is the controversy between Pulgar and the Chilean National Team?

During the most recent FIFA international breaks, Erick Pulgar asked not to be called up by the Chilean National Team. According to the midfielder himself, the decision was made because, at 32 years old, he wants to leave more room for younger players.

However, the president of the Chilean Football Federation, Pablo Milad, gave details about the case and said the midfielder’s decision involves his discomfort with the way he and his family were treated. As a result, before speaking out, Pulgar was being accused of not being able to handle the fans’ pressure.

When was Pulgar’s last match for Chile?

Erick Pulgar’s last match for the Chilean National Team took place in October 2024, in the South American World Cup Qualifiers. On that occasion, the Flamengo midfielder started in the defeats to Bolivia and Colombia. Finally, the scores were 2–1 and 4–0, respectively.

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