Jorge Carrascal: The Journey of the Colombian Star
Jorge Andrés Carrascal Guardo, a 27-year-old Colombian attacking midfielder, is one of the most promising figures in South American football. Born in Cartagena, Colombia, on May 25, 1998, Carrascal has won the hearts of fans with his technical skill, quick dribbles, and vision on the pitch. His journey, marked by personal challenges, triumphs, and standout performances at clubs like Millonarios, River Plate, and most recently Flamengo, reflects the spirit of a player determined to leave his mark on the sport. This article explores Carrascal’s life, career, and impact on football, highlighting his evolution as an athlete and his relevance on the international stage.
Childhood and First Steps in Football
Origins in Cartagena
Jorge Carrascal was born in the Chiquinquirá neighborhood of Cartagena, a vibrant and historic city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. The son of Olga Esther, who worked in a shoe store, and Jorge Luis, a university professor, Carrascal grew up in a humble but supportive family environment. From an early age, he showed a passion for football, playing in the streets of his neighborhood and dreaming of following in the footsteps of Colombian idols like James Rodríguez and Juan Cuadrado.
However, Carrascal’s childhood was not without challenges. Around the age of 12, he faced behavioral issues that led him to drop out of school. A ultimatum from the school where his father taught—if Jorge didn’t leave, his father would lose his job—marked a turbulent period. During this time, he temporarily stepped away from football, grappling with family conflicts and feelings of resentment toward society.
Discovery at the Barranquilla Tournament
A turning point in Carrascal’s life came during a football tournament in Barranquilla, where he represented the Bolívar department team. Despite initial resistance from friends who tried to discourage him, the young player decided to participate alone. It was at this event that Neys Nieto, a scout for Millonarios, one of Colombia’s most traditional clubs, spotted his talent. Impressed by Carrascal’s skill and determination, Nieto approached the family to learn more about the player’s background, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Professional Career: The Start at Millonarios
Debut at 16
At just 16 years old, Carrascal made his debut in Colombia’s first division with Millonarios, an impressive feat for such a young player. His ball control, characterized by quick dribbles and game vision, immediately drew attention. He quickly became a rising star in Colombian football, earning the nickname “Colombian Neymar” due to his dribbling flair and bold hairstyles, often featuring bleached hair.
At Millonarios, Carrascal showed immense potential but still needed tactical maturity. His time at the club was brief but impactful enough to attract interest from international teams. The raw talent of the young midfielder paved the way for the next step in his career: Europe.
European Adventure: Challenges and Growth
Sevilla B and the First European Experience
In 2016, Carrascal was signed by Sevilla in Spain to play for their B team. The transition to European football, however, was not smooth. Adapting to a new country, language, and playing style posed significant challenges. During his time at Sevilla B, he had limited opportunities and was eventually loaned to Karpaty Lviv in Ukraine to gain more playing time.
Breakthrough at Karpaty Lviv
At Karpaty Lviv, Carrascal found the space to shine. Despite initial adaptation struggles, he grew over time, becoming a key player for the team. In 38 matches, he scored six goals and provided three assists, numbers that reflect his growing influence in midfield. In April 2018, he was named the Ukrainian Premier League Player of the Month, a testament to his impact. A standout moment was his decisive goal in a 2-1 victory over Olimpik Donetsk in February 2018.
His time in Ukraine was also marked by off-field challenges, such as harsh weather conditions that disrupted matches and the pressure of establishing himself in a competitive environment. These obstacles, however, helped shape his resilience and versatility as a player.
Shining at River Plate: The Peak in South America
Arrival at the Argentine Giant
In 2019, Carrascal joined River Plate, one of South America’s most prestigious clubs. Under the guidance of coach Marcelo Gallardo, he found the perfect environment to unlock his potential. At River, Carrascal experienced what he describes as one of the happiest periods of his career. His creative and technical playing style fit seamlessly into the team’s attacking system.
During his stint at River Plate from 2019 to 2022, Carrascal contributed goals and assists, earning the affection of the fans. He also achieved one of his biggest personal goals: buying a house for his mother, a milestone that symbolized his financial and emotional stability.
Playing Style and Comparisons to Arrascaeta
At River Plate, Carrascal solidified his reputation as a versatile attacking midfielder capable of playing centrally or on the wings. His speed, mobility, and ability to create plays made him a valuable asset. These traits led to comparisons with Flamengo’s Uruguayan midfielder Giorgian De Arrascaeta, especially after Carrascal joined the Brazilian club years later.
Success in Russia: CSKA and Dynamo Moscow
CSKA Moscow: Title and Stardom
In February 2022, Carrascal moved to CSKA Moscow, where he continued to showcase his talent. Over a season and a half, he played 45 matches, scored seven goals, and provided one assist, while also winning the Russian Cup. His ability to perform in high-stakes games, such as the 2-0 victory over Spartak Moscow in May 2025, where he scored a goal and provided an assist, underscored his importance to the team.
Dynamo Moscow: Leading Role
In August 2023, Carrascal signed with Dynamo Moscow, where he established himself as a protagonist. In the 2024/25 season, he scored eight goals and provided five assists in 37 matches, demonstrating consistency and leadership in midfield. His versatility, combined with his finishing and playmaking abilities, made him one of the standout performers in the Russian Premier League.
Flamengo: A New Chapter in Brazil
Signing with the Rubro-Negro
In July 2025, Flamengo announced the signing of Jorge Carrascal for €12 million (approximately R$78 million) from Dynamo Moscow. His arrival in Rio de Janeiro generated high expectations, particularly due to his similarities to Arrascaeta and his experience at top clubs. Carrascal underwent medical examinations and signed a contract until 2029, becoming the eighth Colombian in the club’s history.
The transfer, facilitated by intermediaries, faced some hurdles, but Carrascal’s desire to play for Flamengo was decisive in sealing the deal. Under coach Filipe Luís, he is seen as a key piece to strengthen the squad, especially for competitions like the Club World Cup.
Expectations at Flamengo
At Flamengo, Carrascal will have the chance to compete in one of South America’s most competitive leagues, the Brasileirão. His ability to play in multiple positions—attacking midfielder, right winger, or left winger—offers tactical flexibility to the team. The passionate Flamengo fanbase expects him to bring the same creativity and impact he displayed at River Plate and in Russian football.
Colombian National Team: A Rising Promise
Debut and Tournament Appearances
Carrascal made his debut for Colombia’s senior national team in 2022, following stints with the youth teams, including the 2015 South American U-17 Championship and the 2020 Olympic Qualifying Tournament. He scored his first international goal against South Korea and has made 19 appearances, with two goals and two assists. In the 2024 Copa América, he was part of the runner-up squad, though he did not feature in matches against Peru or Argentina in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Playing Style with the National Team
With Colombia, Carrascal is valued for his technical ability and capacity to create breakthroughs in attacking transitions. While he still needs to improve his intensity at times, his vision and short dribbles make him a valuable option for coach Néstor Lorenzo.
Personal Life and Legacy
Family and Values
Carrascal maintains a close bond with his family, particularly his parents and two younger siblings, Romario and Sheyri. His father, Jorge Luis, is a devoted River Plate fan, which made Carrascal’s time at the Argentine club even more special. Buying a house for his mother, Olga Esther, was a personal milestone that reflects his dedication to his family.
Impact on Colombian Football
As one of the most talented players of his generation, Carrascal inspires young athletes in Colombia. His journey from the streets of Cartagena to the pitches of Flamengo is a story of perseverance and overcoming adversity. He represents the new wave of Colombian players shining abroad, alongside stars like Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez.
Conclusion
Jorge Carrascal is more than a talented footballer; he is a symbol of resilience and passion for the game. His journey, shaped by personal challenges and professional triumphs, has taken him from Cartagena to the biggest stages in world football. At Flamengo, he has the opportunity to write a new chapter in his career, captivating Brazilian fans with his skill and charisma. At just 27 years old, the “Colombian Neymar” still has much to offer, and his story is far from over. Here’s to the dribbles, goals, and assists that will make Carrascal an unforgettable name in the sport.
