Coming on in the second half versus Chile, substituting Ronaldinho, after Kleber was sent off, was an experience that Juan had long awaited, dreaming of representing the Seleção Brasileira.
"Perhaps not exactly under those circumstances," the winger admitted, acknowledging that nerves and anxiety quickly took hold of him. However, after adjusting to the situation, he was able to calm down and improve his performance.
Juan feels prepared for the meeting with Bolivia this Wednesday, ready to contribute the level of football that persuaded Dunga to call him up for the first time.
He guarantees that he will explore his best quality—attacking support—while not neglecting to defend.
"On the Seleção, I will be obliged to mark more, but Dunga has said that I may advance, at the right moment and decisively attack."
Juan's confidence against Bolívia comes from all the support he's been getting from teammates.
"I don`t even have words to describe how well I was received. The ambience is incredible, everyone here is spurring me on."
Asked about what he would like to be called if ever called to play together with fullback Juan, he said:
"It's funny cause there's never been a case like this before in Brazil, with this name, but I think I'd like to go with my surname—Juan Maldonado."





4 comments Last one added 10 months ago — Leave a Comment
Salomon Gonzales 10 months ago
They just keep on coming dont they! From what you've seen, do you think he will make it in the big time?
Which player would you compare him to?
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S B 10 months ago
He`s a bit like Dani Alves. That kind of player, same characteristics ..not that I`m necessarily saying he`s as good as Dani.
Hard to say if he`ll make it big time....depends really on tonight and some more matches.
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Thomas 10 months ago
just keep coming Brazil! there never seems to be a shortage of Brazillian talent , eh S?
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Saraswathi Siriginia 10 months ago
you can't keep talent down
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