Hanzel Zapata Claims Deception During Millonarios Exit

Former Millonarios forward Hanzel Zapata has spoken out, alleging he was misled during his departure from the Colombian club in 2020. Zapata, who was a regular starter and key attacking player for “Los Embajadores” between 2019 and 2020, expressed significant pain and surprise over how his exit unfolded.

Speaking to Gol Caracol, Zapata stated, “It hurt a lot to leave Millonarios, it caught me by surprise; at the time, it hit me hard. I suffered a lot.” He further elaborated, “It hit me quite hard because I believe they told me some lies.” Zapata indicated dissatisfaction with the information he received concerning the circumstances of his departure.

“The people involved will know what happened. I was feeling very good, and I was just getting started,” Zapata said, without divulging specific details about the contractual situation. He revealed he had a three-year contract, but suggested that the new contract presented to him was intended as a stepping stone for a move abroad, specifically to Mexico.

Gamero’s Influence and Unfulfilled Promises

Zapata highlighted the arrival of coach Alberto Gamero and his own burgeoning form. “He wanted me to be a goal-scoring player, and honestly, I already felt I was making great growth. I was hitting a good moment. Even Gamero was asking for me for the Colombian national team,” he added. Despite his contract status, Zapata claimed he was encouraged to sign a new deal with La Equidad, which he perceived as a facilitator for his transfer to Mexico.

Zapata recounted being in Bogotá, on vacation, and inquiring about when he could travel to his home in Jamundí. He was awaiting a charter flight to Mexico, a flight that never materialized. “I had a whole lot of hope when I was at Millonarios, but when I left, it was like my thinking changed; now they tell a lot of lies in football,” he concluded.

Zapata, who now plays for Kazma SC in Kuwait, expressed a desire for clarity from those who managed his affairs during his time at Millonarios. The forward’s experience underscores the often turbulent nature of player transfers and the importance of transparent communication within football clubs.