Paolo Guerrero’s Remarkable Journey: From Failed Drugs Test to Leading Peru at 40
Introduction:
Paolo Guerrero, the captain and record goalscorer of the Peruvian national team, has had an extraordinary journey in his football career. From leading Peru to the 2018 World Cup finals in Russia to facing a ban for testing positive for benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite, Guerrero has faced numerous challenges. However, he has overcome them all and continues to be an influential figure on and off the pitch.
From Alianza Lima to Bayern Munich:
Guerrero was born in Lima, Peru’s capital, and was discovered by Alianza Lima, one of the country’s prominent clubs, at the age of eight. However, he never got the chance to play for their first team as he was signed by German side Bayern Munich at the age of 18. Guerrero initially joined Bayern Munich II before earning a call-up to the first team, where he made an impact despite tough competition for places.
Off-field Drama and International Struggles:
While Guerrero’s time at Hamburg is mostly remembered for the goals he scored, he also faced off-field drama, including a club-record fine for an incident with a fan. At that time, Peru was struggling to make it to the World Cup, finishing bottom of the South American qualification standings. They also failed to qualify for the 2014 tournament, despite better performances in Copa America.
Success with Corinthians and Flamengo:
Guerrero returned to South America from Europe and played for Corinthians, Flamengo, and Internacional in Brazil’s G-12 clubs. He achieved success with Corinthians, scoring the only goal in the 2012 Club World Cup final against Chelsea. Guerrero’s performances made him Peru’s undisputed star and charismatic leader.
The Doping Controversy:
Leading up to the 2018 World Cup, Guerrero faced a doping controversy when he tested positive for benzoylecgonine. He claimed that the positive test was due to drinking contaminated herbal tea, but FIFA initially banned him for 12 months. Guerrero’s lawyers presented evidence, including the discovery of benzoylecgonine in frozen corpses of Inca children, to reduce the ban to six months. However, WADA appealed, and the suspension was increased to 14 months.
Triumph at the World Cup and Copa America:
Just before the World Cup, the Swiss Federal Tribunal lifted Guerrero’s suspension for the duration of the tournament, allowing him to play. Peru exited at the group stage but Guerrero realized his lifelong ambition of playing at the World Cup. He later became the top scorer at Copa America, helping Peru reach the final. Guerrero’s performances led to him being chosen for the South American team of the decade.
Challenges at Cesar Vallejo:
Guerrero’s journey continued as he joined Club Deportivo Universidad Cesar Vallejo. However, he faced safety concerns for his family, with his mother receiving threatening messages. Guerrero initially sought to be released from his contract but later committed his future to the club. With Copa America approaching, Peru relies on Guerrero’s goalscoring form.
Conclusion:
Paolo Guerrero’s journey from a failed drugs test to leading Peru at the age of 40 is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges, Guerrero has consistently shown his commitment to his country and has become one of Peru’s most famous celebrities. As he prepares for Copa America, all eyes will be on Guerrero as he aims to lead his team to success once again.