🤔Why did Muriel choose Junior over Nacional? | OneFootball

The arrival of Luis Fernando Muriel to Junior de Barranquilla has been the most talked-about move in Colombian football at the start of 2026. After his successful stint in Europe and the MLS, the forward from Santo Tomás finally addressed the rumors linking him to Atlético Nacional, explaining that although there were contacts with the Antioquian club, his decision was always inclined towards the team of his heart.

A Respectful Rejection to the "Verdolaga"

Muriel was emphatic in denying that he used Nacional's interest to pressure his signing in Barranquilla. "The president of Nacional called me before the possibility with Junior arose. I told them I was grateful, but my connection with the Junior world and what it means to my family is something special," the forward confessed. For the goal scorer, it wasn't a financial matter, but a "personal and heartfelt" sentiment that prevented him from considering other offers in the FPC.

Debut in Sight

Physically, the 34-year-old forward feels young and motivated. Although he couldn't debut in the first leg of the Superliga, Muriel hopes to get ready under the supervision of the Colombian National Team's medical staff. His main goal is to gain minutes this Wednesday, January 21, in the second leg match against Independiente Santa Fe at El Campín, where Junior will seek to add a new star to their badge with their new figure on the field.

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

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