Arsenal’s young defensive rock Cristhian Mosquera is at the centre of a tug-of-war between Spain and Colombia, and he could be about to make a stunning international switch before the 2026 World Cup.
The 21-year-old, born in Alicante to Colombian parents, has captained Spain’s U21 side and was once seen as a future La Roja star. But with Colombia turning up the heat, Mosquera’s allegiance may not be as clear-cut as it once seemed.
The Colombian Football Federation is desperate to secure the Arsenal defender’s services, and they’re dangling the ultimate prize: a starting spot at the World Cup. For Mosquera, who’s currently behind the likes of Laporte, Le Normand, and Cubarsí in Spain’s pecking order, that’s a tempting offer.
Mosquera’s performances for Arsenal have been outstanding since joining last summer, four starts, three clean sheets, and praise from manager Mikel Arteta, who has lauded the youngster’s smooth transition into the Premier League.
Asked about pledging his future to Colombia, Mosquera gave a teasingly cryptic reply:
“What depends on me is working day by day and the doors will open.”
It’s a comment that’s only fuelled speculation that he might be ready to switch sides.
Colombia already tried to lure him back in 2023 when he was still at Valencia, and now, with Mosquera shining on one of football’s biggest stages, they’re back for another shot.
With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, the clock is ticking, and fans in both Spain and Colombia are watching closely.
Will Mosquera stick with Spain or answer Colombia’s call? The battle for his allegiance is on, and it’s heating up fast.
