With the 2019 U20 FIFA World Cup set to kick off in Poland later today, we thought we’d give you all a little lowdown on the only Reds player who’ll be at the tournament: Anderson Arroyo.
Arroyo, who signed for us back in the early months of 2018 from Fortaleza CEIF, has been included in Colombia’s squad for the three week-long tournament.
The 19-year-old plays as an out-and-out left back, who can also operate at right-back, and although he’s yet to make any kind of appearance for us since his arrival, he’s still been managing to gain valuable experience elsewhere.
According to the club’s official website, Arroyo was sent on loan to Real Mallorca immediately after joining, with the Colombian amassing 14 games and one goal during his stint in Spain.
Since then, Arroyo has spent the whole of this season out on loan to Belgian outfit Gent, joining up with fellow Reds loanee Taiwo Awoniyi in the process – but the South American has failed to make a first-team appearance for them since his arrival.
Colombia are set to take on hosts Poland to kick off the tournament later today, something that will give Reds the chance to see exactly what the defender is all about.
Colombia have been drawn in Group A alongside Poland, Tahiti and Senegal, and given this, we can surely expect to see Arroyo’s side finish in at least the top three of their group, something that could see them qualify for the knockout stages should other elements go their way.
Arroyo will be looking to impress during the next three weeks as he looks to eventually earn a call-up to his nation’s senior team, managed by Carlos Queiroz.
Maybe we’ve got another Andy Robertson on our hands!