The Cuban goalkeeper Leonardo Hierrezuelo, who left the national futsal team during their training in Spain for the upcoming 2024 Uzbekistan World Cup, opened up about his escape and his future plans in Spain, where he dreams of playing professionally one day.
"Living in Cuba is very hard. It's always been bad, but after the coronavirus, everything has gotten worse," Hierrezuelo told the Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia.
Hierrezuelo, another athlete adding to the growing list of those fleeing the island in search of a better future, recounted how he left a hotel in Huelva where the team was staying. In the early morning of August 26-27, he took a train to a friend's house who already lived in Spain, a friend who not only bought his ticket but is now also providing him shelter.
"I made the decision when we started our training camp in Portugal. I wasn't sure I wanted to wait another four years to get another chance for a better future," he said.
The 22-year-old from Havana, who was a substitute in friendly matches against Portugal and Ukraine—which ended in 9-0 and 7-0 defeats respectively—trained every day in Cuba while working in a bike repair shop. His income was very low, as he only earned from the second job.
"My mother only made about 3,000 to 4,000 Cuban pesos, which is equivalent to 10 euros," he said, highlighting the dire economic situation he lived in.
During his trips abroad with the Cuban team, Hierrezuelo took advantage of the opportunity to "buy things that could sell well in Cuba like sports pumps and clothes," because on the island, "it's very difficult to find food in supermarkets, and when it's available, it's at exorbitant prices," he explained.
After Hierrezuelo's escape, his parents and siblings remained in Havana, whom he hopes to support once he achieves financial stability in Spain. For now, he is open to doing any work that will help him survive while he legalizes his status in the Iberian country.
Before Hierrezuelo's departure, the Cuban team had already lost young Harold Aguilera (22 years old), who left the group in the Portuguese city of Viseu. Aguilera, originally from Camagüey and known for his defensive role in the team, went missing after a friendly match against the Ukrainian team, reported Playoff Magazine.
The Cuban team began their journey in the World Cup with a 10-0 defeat against Brazil on Saturday. They will face Thailand next Tuesday, September 17.
FAQs About Leonardo Hierrezuelo's Departure and Life in Cuba
Here are some common questions and answers about Hierrezuelo's departure from the Cuban futsal team and the challenging living conditions in Cuba.
Why did Leonardo Hierrezuelo leave the Cuban futsal team?
Leonardo Hierrezuelo left the Cuban futsal team due to the difficult living conditions in Cuba, which worsened after the coronavirus pandemic. He sought a better future and professional opportunities in Spain.
How did Hierrezuelo manage to escape in Spain?
Hierrezuelo left the hotel where the team was staying in Huelva, took a train to a friend's house in Spain, and is currently being supported by that friend.
What is the economic situation like in Cuba?
The economic situation in Cuba is dire. Basic necessities like food are hard to find and are sold at very high prices. Wages are extremely low, making it difficult for many to survive.
What are Hierrezuelo's plans in Spain?
Hierrezuelo plans to legalize his status in Spain and is willing to do any job to survive. Ultimately, he dreams of playing professional futsal in Spain and hopes to support his family back in Cuba.