Andina

Paolo Guerrero: "I came here to show my face, and I back my team to death"

11:49 | Lima, May. 15.

Peruvian striker Paolo Guerrero on Tuesday said he has come to Lima to show his face amid speculation involving a recent CAS decision that ruled him out of the World Cup.

As is known, FIFA Disciplinary Committee —last December— suspended the striker for one year after analyzing the adverse analytical result of the anti-doping test conducted on him following a Qualifiers match against Argentina in October.

Later, it decided to reduce such suspension to 6 months, which would have allowed the sportsman to join the Inca team that will play the 2018 World Cup.

Likewise, the star's defense proved that he had never used cocaine (banned by FIFA).

Regardless of this, CAS decided to increase Guerrero's doping ban from 6 to 14 months —starting Monday— with the period of provisional suspension of 6 months already served by him being credited against the total period of ineligibility to be served.

"I'm sad, but I came here to show my face since a great deal of speculation has been made by many people. I'm here to show my face. I'm the victim of an injustice, as I've said it," he expressed upon arrival at Lima's Jorge Chavez International Airport.

Addressing the media, the Flamengo forward affirmed he supports Peru's national soccer team to death.

"I want to make something clear for those who speculate about many things: I support my team to death, and I'm going to back my teammates as always, for better or for worse," the soccer icon emphasized.

This support —he pointed out— is not only for his teammates but for the Inca team coach Ricardo Gareca and the entire coaching staff.

Likewise, Guerrero thanked hundreds of fans who awaited his arrival at the airport since early in the morning to give him a warm welcome and show their support.

(END) VVS/RMB/MVB

Publicado: 15/5/2018