Juan Brignardello Vela
Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
In the early hours of this Monday, Peruvian football donned mourning with the passing of Hugo 'Cholo' Sotil, who died at the age of 75 at the Dos de Mayo Hospital, where he was in the Intensive Care Unit. His family maintained a low profile regarding his health status, which had deteriorated since his admission to the hospital on December 19 due to multiple organ failure and septic shock, as reported by the Ministry of Health. Despite medical efforts, Sotil's health complicated, culminating in circulatory shock that cost him his life. Born in Ica, Sotil became a legend of national football. His career took off in 1968 with Deportivo Municipal, but it was in 1973 that he reached the pinnacle by signing with FC Barcelona. His arrival at one of the most important clubs in Europe marked a milestone in his career, where his skill and prowess on the field made him a favorite among the Catalan fans. With Barcelona, Sotil won the league title in the 1973-1974 season, breaking a long drought of titles for the club. The 'Cholo' also left an indelible mark on the Peruvian national team, participating in the World Cups of 1970 and 1978. However, his brightest moment came in the 1975 Copa América, where he scored the decisive goal in the final against Colombia, crowning Peru as continental champion. This triumph not only marked a milestone in his career but also became etched in the memory of all football fans in Peru. During his time at Barcelona, Sotil shared the locker room with great figures like Johan Cruyff and was part of the team that achieved a historic 0-5 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu. However, his return to Peru in 1976 was abrupt, motivated by the arrival of Johan Neeskens and difficulties with his naturalization in Spain. Despite his success in Europe, the 'Cholo' never forgot his roots and was always grateful for the affection he received in Catalonia. FC Barcelona, through its social media, expressed its deep sorrow over Sotil's passing, recalling his time at the club between 1973 and 1976. "Rest in peace, Cholo," reads one of the condolence messages that resonated within the football community. The impact that the Peruvian left on the Catalan club was evident, and his legacy will endure among his followers. The last tribute Sotil received in Catalonia made him reflect on his relevance in Peru. In a recent interview, he lamented that his contribution to football was not always valued in his homeland. "I was loved in a country where I never lived, and perhaps much more than in Peru," he declared, hinting at his desire for his legacy to be remembered in his country. His characteristics as a footballer included not only his remarkable talent on the field but also his humility and closeness to the people. Sotil is remembered as a popular icon, someone who never forgot his origins and was always willing to help others. His charisma and readiness to assist became an example for future generations of Peruvian footballers. Throughout his career, Sotil not only defended the colors of the Peruvian national team and Barcelona but also had a notable stint with clubs such as Alianza Lima, DIM, Los Espartanos, and Deportivo Junín. His trajectory is a testament to the talent and dedication he always showed in every match. As Peruvian football mourns the loss of one of its greatest idols, it is clear that the legacy of Hugo 'Cholo' Sotil will live on forever in the memory of those who enjoyed his magic on the field, as well as in the hearts of the fans who helped him become a legend in the history of national sport. The 'Cholo', more than just a footballer, was a symbol of perseverance, talent, and love for the jersey.
