Jorge Carrascal: The Colombian Star
Jorge Andrés Carrascal Guardo is a name that resonates in South American football and beyond, known for his skill, boldness, and vibrant playing style. Born on May 25, 1998, in Cartagena, Colombia, Carrascal has captivated fans with his natural talent and comparisons to football greats like Neymar. This article explores Jorge Carrascal’s journey, from his humble beginnings to his rise as one of the most promising midfielders in world football, with stints at clubs like River Plate, Sevilla, and Dynamo Moscow, culminating in his recent transfer to Flamengo.
Early Life and First Steps in Football
Origins in Cartagena
Jorge Carrascal was born in a poor neighborhood of Cartagena, a coastal Colombian city known for its rich history and socioeconomic challenges. Growing up in a humble environment shaped his determination and passion for football. The son of Jorge Luis, a father enamored with Brazilian football, Carrascal inherited a love for the sport and a name inspired by great idols. Interestingly, his younger brother, Romário, was named after the legendary Brazilian striker, highlighting the influence of Brazilian football on the family.
From a young age, Carrascal showed talent with the ball. Playing on the streets of Cartagena, he developed a style marked by quick dribbles, game vision, and creativity—traits that would define his future success.
First Clubs and Professional Debut
At 16, Carrascal was already turning heads at Millonarios, one of Colombia’s most storied clubs. His professional debut came in 2014, as a teenager. Though he played few matches, his ball control and ability to unbalance games caught the eye of international scouts, paving the way for a career abroad.
European Career: Early Challenges
Sevilla and the European Dream
In 2016, at just 18, Carrascal was signed by Sevilla in Spain, a club renowned for nurturing young talent. The move to Europe was a milestone, but it came with challenges. At Sevilla, he played for the B team, struggling to adapt to the more tactical and physical style of European football. Despite flashes of brilliance, he couldn’t break into the first team.
Loan to Karpaty Lviv
To gain experience, Carrascal was loaned to Karpaty Lviv in Ukraine in 2017. In Ukrainian football, he had more opportunities to play, though he faced cultural barriers and the pressure of competing far from home. His time at Karpaty showcased his dribbling and playmaking abilities, reinforcing his reputation as a promising talent.
Breakthrough at River Plate
Arrival at the Argentine Giant
In 2019, River Plate, one of South America’s most prestigious clubs, secured Carrascal on loan from Karpaty with an option to buy. His arrival at the Argentine club marked a turning point. Under the guidance of coach Marcelo Gallardo, known for developing young talent, Carrascal found the perfect environment to shine.
Nicknamed the “Colombian Neymar” for his bold style and flamboyant hairstyles, he quickly won over River’s fans. Over 81 matches, he scored 9 goals and provided 6 assists. While his numbers weren’t prolific, his dribbling, playmaking, and defensive contributions made him a key part of Gallardo’s tactical setup.
Standout at the Pre-Olympic Tournament
In 2020, Carrascal was a standout for Colombia’s U-23 team at the South American Pre-Olympic Tournament. Scoring three goals in four matches, he tied for the top scorer alongside players like Brazil’s Pepê. His performance against Argentina, where he was decisive before being substituted, earned praise from the Colombian press, who called him “a different kind of player, a true star.”
Stint in Russian Football
CSKA and Dynamo Moscow
In 2022, Carrascal moved to CSKA Moscow, where he continued to display his talent in the competitive Russian league. His time at CSKA included solid performances and a goal in six appearances for Colombia’s senior national team. He later transferred to Dynamo Moscow, where he solidified his reputation as a versatile midfielder. In the 2024/2025 season, he played 35 matches, scoring 8 goals and providing 3 assists, reflecting his growing influence on the pitch.
At Dynamo, Carrascal stood out for his ability to play multiple midfield roles, combining speed, technique, and vision. His knack for performing under pressure and contributing both offensively and defensively made him a target for clubs worldwide.
Transfer to Flamengo
New Chapter in Brazil
In July 2025, Flamengo announced the signing of Jorge Carrascal, marking his arrival in Brazilian football. The transfer, valued at R$77 million, was a major coup in the transfer window, with Flamengo outbidding rivals like Palmeiras, who also showed interest.
Carrascal was welcomed as Flamengo’s first major signing of the season, with expectations that his dynamic style would fit perfectly into the club’s tactical setup. His versatility to play as an attacking midfielder or in more advanced roles was a key factor in Flamengo’s interest. His experience in South American competitions like the Libertadores and his time with the Colombian national team further bolstered his credentials.
Playing Style and Expectations
At Flamengo, Carrascal is expected to take on a starring role in midfield, bringing creativity and unpredictability. Compared to Claudinho, another sought-after player in Brazilian football, Carrascal combines quick dribbles, precise passes, and strong defensive work, making him ideal for the intense Brazilian Serie A.
Flamengo’s coach, Tite, praised the signing, highlighting Carrascal’s ability to “elevate his teammates” and his ambidexterity. The passionate Flamengo fanbase is already buzzing with hopes that he could become a new club idol.
Colombian National Team: A Bright Future
Debut and Consolidation
Carrascal debuted for Colombia’s senior team in 2019 and has since been a regular in call-ups. With six appearances and one goal, he’s still working to cement a starting role, but his involvement in World Cup qualifiers and international friendlies showcases his potential.
In the national team, he competes with established stars like James Rodríguez, but his youth and versatility make him a key part of Colombia’s future. His “spectacular” performance at the 2020 Pre-Olympic Tournament, as described by Brazil’s coach André Jardine, underscores his high ceiling.
Cultural Impact
Beyond his on-field talent, Carrascal carries the pride of Cartagena and Colombia. His journey from humble beginnings to international stardom inspires young players in his homeland. While the “Colombian Neymar” nickname may be lofty, it reflects hopes that he can achieve global impact.
Playing Style: What Makes Carrascal Special?
Skill and Versatility
Jorge Carrascal is renowned for his exceptional technical ability. An ambidextrous player, he excels at dribbling, creating chances, and finishing with precision. His game vision allows him to act as a midfield maestro, delivering passes that dismantle defenses.
- Dribbling: His ability to navigate tight spaces with quick dribbles is a standout trait, often compared to Neymar’s flair.
- Game Vision: Carrascal reads the game well, knowing when to speed up or slow down play.
- Defensive Contribution: Unlike many attacking midfielders, he willingly tracks back to defend, making him valuable in modern tactical setups.
Comparisons to Neymar
The “Colombian Neymar” moniker stems from his bold dribbles and colorful hairstyles. While flattering, Carrascal has his own style, less focused on showboating and more on efficiency. His time at River Plate proved he’s more than a flair player, capable of deciding big matches.
Challenges and Criticism
Consistency and Adaptation
Despite his talent, Carrascal has faced criticism for inconsistency at times. At River Plate, he took time to become a regular starter, alternating between brilliant and lackluster performances. In Russia, he found more consistency but must prove he can maintain that level in the ultra-competitive Brazilian league.
Pressure at Flamengo
At Flamengo, the pressure will be immense. The club’s demanding fanbase and expectation of titles will test Carrascal. Adapting to Brazilian football’s blend of physicality and technical flair will be critical to his success.
Off-Field Impact
Inspiration for Youth
Carrascal is a symbol of perseverance for young people from disadvantaged communities. His rise from Cartagena to the global stage shows how talent and hard work can open doors. Active on social media, he shares glimpses of his life and engages with fans, boosting his popularity.
Fashion Influence
Beyond football, Carrascal’s style stands out. His colorful hairstyles and modern outfits make him a trendsetter, particularly among Colombian youth. This charismatic persona helps him build a strong personal brand, increasingly vital in modern football.
Carrascal’s Future
Expectations at Flamengo
With his move to Flamengo, Carrascal has a chance to become a star in Brazil, a football-obsessed nation. His playmaking and versatility could make him a leader in Flamengo’s pursuit of titles in the Brasileirão, Libertadores, and Copa do Brasil.
Ambitions with Colombia
In the Colombian national team, Carrascal is part of a transitional phase. As veterans like James Rodríguez and Juan Cuadrado age, he’s seen as a future leader. The 2026 World Cup will be a prime opportunity to establish himself as a key player.
Global Potential
At 27, Carrascal is in his prime. His experience in Europe, South America, and Russia, combined with his new chapter in Brazil, positions him as a player with potential to attract interest from top European clubs again. If he maintains consistency and shines at Flamengo, the sky’s the limit.
Conclusion
Jorge Carrascal is more than the “Colombian Neymar.” He’s a unique talent with a story of resilience, skill, and determination. From Cartagena to Flamengo, via Sevilla, River Plate, and Dynamo Moscow, he’s built a career that inspires and captivates. In Brazil, he has the chance to write a new chapter, winning titles and hearts. With his skill, versatility, and charisma, Carrascal is poised to leave a lasting mark on world football.
