The star that got away from Valencia last summer

Héctor Andreu | 8 Oct 2025 | 15.32

Valencia was able to sign Juan Cuadrado / Valenciacf

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In recent months, the name of Juan Cuadrado has resurfaced strongly among Valencia supporters. The veteran Colombian full-back was close to joining Mestalla this summer when Valencia CF sought to strengthen their right flank due to doubts surrounding Thierry Correia. However, the player opted for Pisa FC, missing out on an opportunity that could have changed the team's La Liga scenario entirely.

An Intense Summer at Mestalla and Cuadrado's Role in the Equation

Valencia CF made up to eight signings in the summer transfer market, aiming to provide Carlos Corberán with a more competitive squad. Nevertheless, the right-back position remained a cause for concern. With Correia recovering and Foulquier as the only significant alternative, the sports management explored various options to reinforce the position. Eventually, the club decided not to let academy player Rubén Iranzo leave, who had an offer from Celta, in order to maintain an emergency solution within the squad.

According to reports from EstadioDeportivo, one of the most prominent names considered was Juan Cuadrado. From Italy, Pisa's sporting director, Davide Daira, revealed that Valencia was very close to securing his signing. According to his statements, Cuadrado was seeking playing time to keep his chances alive for the World Cup with Colombia. "At first, it seemed he was going to Valencia, but then we spoke with him, and within 24 hours, he gave us the green light to come here," explained the Italian executive, emphasizing how advanced the negotiations had become.

What Convinced Pisa and What Hindered the Move to Spanish Football

The player himself later confirmed that he had an offer in Spain, without disclosing the specific club. "I had the opportunity to go to Spain; I have always liked La Liga, but I decided to stay in Italy for my family as well. My mother has never left Turin," Cuadrado stated in an interview.

His decision was based on both personal and sporting reasons. Pisa FC offered him a stable project, a defined role within the team, and sufficient playing time to stay fit. At 37 years old, the Colombian prioritized continuity and family proximity over the challenge of moving to a new country and adapting to a new league.

However, his start to the season in Italy has not been entirely smooth. He has played in five out of six Serie A matches, all as a substitute, and missed a game due to physical discomfort. In the Cup, his only start resulted in a direct red card against Torino, a situation that sparked some controversy and led Pisa to be eliminated from the tournament.

Implications for Valencia and the Failed Outcome

The revelation of this failed transfer attempt highlights that Valencia CF was willing to bank on experience to strengthen a defensive flank that has been a source of doubts in recent times. Bringing in Juan Cuadrado would have added veteran leadership and offensive skills to a young, developing squad. Nonetheless, the club chose to maintain internal stability and prioritize other needs.

For Cuadrado, staying in Italy was a logical choice. He has spent almost his entire career in the country, having played for clubs like Udinese, Fiorentina, Juventus, Inter Milan, and now Pisa. Familiarity with the league and proximity to his environment outweighed the allure of La Liga.

Ultimately, it was Juan Cuadrado who chose to remain in Italy, leaving Valencia CF pondering what could have been. A thwarted move that, in hindsight, could have altered the team's course in a season where every detail counts.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La estrella que se le escapó al Valencia el pasado verano

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