Esquivel now says ‘his family suffered a lot in South Africa’

Published on by Willis Sob

The South American has further claimed it was tough for him to adapt in Mzansi in terms of style of play.

Argentine attacker Matias Esquivel has now claimed he did not find it easy in South Africa while turning out for Mamelodi Sundowns.

The 25-year-old South American sealed a season-long loan move to CA Talleres a couple of weeks ago. The attacker had joined Masandawana in January for a reported R45 million and went on to play just 13 games across all competitions.

Esquivel scored two goals and provided an assist for the Premier Soccer League champions before leaving on loan.

Why did Esquivel leave Sundowns?

In his interview with the Argentine media, Esquivel has now claimed his family failed to settle in the Southern Africa nation. 

“In South Africa, yes, it was difficult, it was difficult for my family, they also suffered a lot,” the player stated.

“We were far from everything, but then we adapted little by little, but when the family needs a little fresh air, they want to be happy back [in their home country] and I spoke to my wife and I asked her, ‘what do you want to do?' She told me, ‘Let's explore the option to go home, let's visit the chance'. 

“I then spoke with the club and they gave me the chance to come and I want to thank the club management for how easily they brought me [here] and now I want to give my best for the club,” Esquivel continued.

Matias Esquivel celebrates with teammates after scoring against Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns
Matias Esquivel celebrates with teammates after scoring against Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns

Esquivel responds to struggles adapting to style of play.

During his time at the club, coach Rhulani Mokwena was the one in charge, dictating the style of play. 

However, Esquivel failed to deliver as anticipated having commanded a huge transfer fee. Why did it happen so?

“The rhythm [at Sundowns] is different, but I trained as hard as everyone there, it just wasn't my turn, but I trained the same because in the life of a footballer, today you are here tomorrow you are somewhere else.”

Telles have an option of permanently signing the midfielder once his loan-deal with Downs expires. 

Esquivel now says ‘his family suffered a lot in South Africa’

Willis Sob

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.