Juan Pablo Freytes: From Alianza Lima to Fluminense and the World Club Cup 2025
The World Club Cup 2025 is underway, introducing an unprecedented format reminiscent of the classic FIFA World Cup. This time, a total of 32 clubs are striving for the prestigious title. Among these participants is Fluminense from Brazil, a historic name in the Brasileirão, featuring three players with backgrounds in the Liga 1: Ignácio da Silva, Kevin Serna, and Juan Pablo Freytes.
All three players have a special affection for Peru, as it served as a launching pad for their international careers, specifically with a globally recognized institution. Freytes expresses his gratitude toward Alianza Lima, the club that took a chance on him during a challenging phase in Argentine football. His time at La Victoria marked a significant turning point in his career.
“I believe Peru is my home. When I left there, many people told me I have open doors. Indeed, the football level is a bit lower, but the people’s warmth is lovely. We played at Alianza Lima in front of packed stadiums, and the fans are incredibly loyal, just like in Brazil,” he remarked in an interview with Canal do Lessa.
His performance during the Apertura 2024 and Clausura 2024, coupled with his memorable appearance in the last edition of the CONMEBOL Libertadores, caught the eye of Fluminense, leading to a transfer that was not without its complications.
“The first few months were very challenging because I have a very young child, and for my wife, the change was significant. In Peru, we felt at home, but I believe we are gradually getting used to the enormous changes in football and life in general. The people at the club have made me feel like I’ve been a part of them for a long time,” highlighted Freytes.
Reflecting on his performance, he added, “The fans have shown their affection, even though my performance was not up to par after transitioning from a different football level. Day by day, we are trying to elevate Fluminense as high as possible in the Brasileirao. Everything is heading in the right direction.”
Freytes’s rise was marked by a crucial match against Fluminense during the group stage of the Libertadores. The player’s outstanding performance attracted the attention of a club legend, who acted as an intermediary to facilitate his eventual transfer. This conversation took place when Kevin Serna was also in discussions to join the team.
“Initially, Germán Cano spoke to me at the return leg in Maracanã. He knew I didn’t speak Portuguese and inquired about my situation with respect to the club. I had planned to come with Serna, but then Alianza had to make decisions regarding Kevin’s departure, who was our best player by far,” shared Freytes.
Facing the potential loss of another pillar in the team, coach Alejandro Restrepo declined to let Freytes go, emphasizing his importance in strategic planning. The coach made it clear that if Freytes wanted to leave, he would have to contend with him, resulting in an enlightening experience for both.
“To avoid dismantling the squad further, the coach told me he wouldn’t let me go and that one option was to contest with him for my departure. If I wanted to leave, I had to fight him for it. I understood his perspective and felt indebted to him for opening the doors to the biggest club in Peru,” said Juan Pablo.
Despite this challenging scenario, Freytes maintained his high level of performance with Alianza Lima, eagerly awaiting Fluminense’s next approach. As the previous year closed, he bid farewell to Matute, setting his sights on Maracanã.
“Thank God I stayed. I spent about six beautiful months waiting for the call. Ultimately, it happened, and I’m still in contact with the coach. I am grateful to Alejandro Restrepo for teaching me so much and helping me grow as a person and player. He opened my eyes to many things I didn’t know, and I send him a big hug.”