Related videos:
At 36 years old, the Cuban forward Marcel Hernández is experiencing a phase of complete dedication and quiet anticipation.
Idol of the Costa Rican fans, two-time champion with the Club Sport Herediano of the first division, and with 18 goals in national championships, Marcel is in the final stretch of his contract without knowing if the club will renew his agreement.
“I am giving 150% for the team,” he assured , after scoring another goal in the recent match against Puntarenas FC, where he also apologized to the fans for the loss.
With humility, he acknowledges that the start of the tournament has not been ideal, but he promises to change the course. "It hasn't been the dream start... but we can change our story in the upcoming matches."
Between uncertainty and fidelity
Although there was an initial approach from the Florense management, Marcel acknowledges that it is not what he expected and prefers to focus on enjoying the present.
“For me, it's that: enjoying day by day... I am happy, calm”, he stated at the end of the match, maintaining his composure while continuing to contribute with goals, assists, and leadership.
The coach Pablo Salazar still considers him a key part of the plan, but the management has not confirmed whether they will continue to rely on him beyond December.
“For now, the most important thing is to continue contributing to Herediano, to the fans, and to give my best. As I said, to keep enjoying”, stated the forward.
A story of struggle, successes, and scars
Marcel is not just a goal scorer; he is also a man marked by a story that goes beyond football. In 2022, he was acquitted in Costa Rica of all charges for which he had been accused in 2018, including rape and relations with a minor.
After four years of legal proceedings and three attempts to bring the case to trial, the courts determined his innocence due to lack of evidence and contradictions in the testimonies.
More than I as a man, it was justice that triumphed, he said then, visibly relieved, and with the hope of seeing his family in Cuba again after years of restrictions.
Far from the selection, but not from Cuba
In 2023, Marcel decided to step away from the Cuban national team in a gesture of protest against the precarious conditions faced by Cuban players during call-ups.
“We do not eat well and we do not have good accommodations”, he reported. He did not close the door, but made it clear that respect for the player is key to his return.
Today, the all-time foreign goal scorer in Costa Rican club football, a title he achieved in 2022, continues to make history with each match.
Filed under: