Yeferson Soteldo: The Brilliant Venezuelan Footballer
Yeferson Julión Soteldo Martínez, known simply as Yeferson Soteldo, is one of the most prominent names in contemporary South American football. Born in Venezuela, this talented player has captured hearts and dominated pitches wherever he goes, with his remarkable skill and dedication to the sport. This article dives into Soteldo’s life and career, exploring his origins, achievements, and the impact he has on Venezuelan and international football. Spanning over 2,000 words, we trace the path that took him from the dusty fields of his homeland to the grand stages of world football.
Early Life and First Steps in Football
Childhood in Venezuela
Yeferson Soteldo was born on June 30, 1997, in Acarigua, a city in the state of Portuguesa, in the heart of Venezuela. From a young age, football was part of his daily life. Raised in a humble family, Soteldo grew up in an environment where the sport was more than just fun—it was a way to dream of a better future. His parents, Julión Soteldo and María Martínez, always encouraged him to pursue his passion for the ball.
At age seven, Yeferson was already kicking a ball on the streets of Acarigua. The makeshift fields, made of packed dirt with goals marked by stones, were his playground. He stood out for his agility and skillful dribbling, traits that set him apart from other kids. “I played all day, never getting tired,” Soteldo recalled in past interviews. His family recognized his natural talent, but life in Venezuela during the 2000s was tough, with economic challenges making access to sports equipment a rarity.
Discovery by Zamora FC
Soteldo’s life changed at age 11 when he was invited to train with Zamora FC, one of Venezuela’s most traditional clubs. Based in Barinas, Zamora was known for nurturing young talent. There, Yeferson joined the youth ranks, where he began to shape his playing style. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, he learned the importance of discipline and teamwork.
At Zamora, Soteldo played as a left winger, a position that highlighted his speed and game vision. He quickly became captain of the youth teams, leading his teammates with charisma and determination. In 2012, at age 15, he signed his first professional contract with the club. It was the beginning of a journey that would take him far from home.
Rise at Zamora FC and Professional Debut
Breakthrough Season in 2013
Soteldo’s debut for Zamora’s senior team came in 2013 during the Torneio Apertura of the Venezuelan Primera División. At just 16, he took the field against Deportivo Táchira, scoring his first professional goal in a 2-1 victory. The crowd was amazed by the young player, who dribbled past defenders as if they were training cones.
That season, Soteldo played 20 matches and scored five goals, helping Zamora win the national championship. His performances caught the eye of international scouts, but he remained loyal to the club that shaped him. “Zamora is like a second family to me,” he said in an interview with local media.
National Titles and Individual Awards
In 2014, Soteldo continued to shine. Zamora defended their Apertura title and reached the final of the Copa Venezuela. Yeferson was named the best young player of the tournament, a recognition that solidified his reputation in Venezuela. He racked up 10 goals and eight assists in that campaign, impressive numbers for a teenager.
By age 17, Soteldo was being compared to Venezuelan legends like José Salomón Rondón. His ability to create plays out of nothing and finish with precision made him indispensable. Zamora, thanks in part to his talent, became back-to-back national champions in 2015, and Soteldo lifted his second league trophy.
Move to Chile and Adapting Abroad
Arrival at Huachipato in 2016
In January 2016, Soteldo took a bold step, transferring to Huachipato in the Chilean Primera División for approximately $1.2 million. It was his first experience outside Venezuela, and the 18-year-old faced cultural and language challenges. Chile’s more physical style of football tested his resilience.
At Huachipato, Soteldo took time to adapt but soon proved his worth. In his first season, he played 25 matches, scoring six goals and providing four assists. The club’s fans, known as “Acereros,” embraced the Venezuelan as an idol, chanting his name in the stands.
Copa Libertadores Spotlight
The highlight at Huachipato was participating in the 2016 Copa Libertadores. Soteldo scored decisive goals against teams like Colo-Colo and Universidad Católica, helping his team advance in the group stage. His speed on the flanks and precise crosses were lethal weapons. Despite elimination in the round of 16, Yeferson was praised by Chilean media as one of the competition’s top foreign players.
In 2017, Soteldo continued to grow. He took on the captain’s armband in some matches and led Huachipato to a solid fourth-place finish in the national championship. Over two seasons in Chile, he played over 60 matches and contributed 15 goals.
Call-Up to the Venezuelan National Team
Debut for the Vinotinto
Soteldo’s talent didn’t go unnoticed by the Venezuelan national team. In 2015, while still at Zamora, he was called up to the under-17 squad, where he shone in the South American Championship. But it was in 2016, at Huachipato, that he made his debut for the senior team, the Vinotinto.
His first match was against Paraguay in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Soteldo came on in the second half and nearly scored, showing immediate potential. Under coaches like Noel Sanvicente and Rafael Dudamel, he became a regular starter.
International Tournament Performances
In 2017, Soteldo was a key player in Venezuela’s campaign at the Copa América Centenario. Although the team didn’t advance past the group stage, he scored a goal against Mexico in a historic 1-0 victory, the Vinotinto’s first official win over the Mexicans.
In the qualifiers for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, Soteldo played over 30 matches, scoring three goals and providing several assists. His partnership with players like Salomón Rondón and Tomás Rincón strengthened Venezuela’s midfield. In the 2019 Copa América, he helped the team reach the quarterfinals, their best-ever finish.
At 28, in 2025, Soteldo remains a cornerstone of the Vinotinto. He has been part of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where Venezuela dreams of their first-ever qualification. His on-field leadership inspires a new generation of Venezuelan players.
Career at Santos FC and Achievements in Brazil
Arrival at the Peixe in 2018
In July 2018, Soteldo signed with Santos FC, one of Brazil’s biggest clubs, for $6 million. The passionate Santos fans welcomed the Venezuelan with open arms. He wore the number 37 jersey, in tribute to a deceased friend, and quickly adapted to the technical and competitive Brazilian game.
At Santos, Soteldo played as a winger or attacking midfielder, showcasing his versatility. His debut came against Fluminense, where he provided an assist in the opening minutes. The Baixada Santista crowd roared for their new star.
Stellar Seasons and Titles
In the 2018 season, Soteldo played 22 matches in the Brasileirão, scoring four goals. In 2019, he exploded, tallying 12 goals and 10 assists across all competitions. Santos reached the Copa Libertadores final, and Soteldo was the hero in the semifinals against Palmeiras, scoring in the first leg.
In 2020, despite the pandemic, Soteldo continued to shine. He helped Santos win the Campeonato Paulista, lifting his first Brazilian title. In that year’s Libertadores, the team reached the final but lost to Palmeiras. Soteldo was named the tournament’s best player, with five goals and four assists.
Over his stint at Santos, which lasted until 2022, Soteldo played over 100 matches, scored around 25 goals, and provided countless assists. He became a fan favorite, with dedicated chants and jerseys flying off the shelves. His friendship with Neymar, who publicly praised him, added a touch of glamour to his time in Brazil.
Emotional Farewell
In 2022, contractual issues led to Soteldo’s departure from Santos. Fans protested, but he moved on. His time at the Peixe left a legacy of speed, dribbles, and decisive goals, inspiring young players at Vila Belmiro.
Experiences at Other Clubs and Evolution
Toronto FC in MLS
In August 2022, Soteldo transferred to Toronto FC in Major League Soccer for $6.5 million. The MLS presented a new challenge: a more physical game with less emphasis on dribbling. In Canada, he adapted quickly, scoring 11 goals in his first full season in 2023.
At Toronto, Soteldo formed a lethal partnership with players like Federico Bernardeschi. He helped the team reach the MLS playoffs and was selected for the 2023 All-Star Game. Life in Toronto, far from family, tested his maturity, but Yeferson thrived, becoming one of the league’s top foreign players.
Return to South America and Grêmio
In 2024, Soteldo returned to South America, signing with Grêmio in Brazil on loan. With the Porto Alegre-based club, he rediscovered the Brazilian football he loved. Playing alongside veterans like Diego Costa, he contributed to Grêmio’s campaigns in the Brasileirão and Copa do Brasil.
In 2025, with his contract renewed, Soteldo remains a key starter for Grêmio. His accumulated experience makes him a leader on the pitch, guiding younger players. He has already scored eight goals in the current season, showing that at 28, he’s at the peak of his form.
Playing Style and Technical Attributes
Speed and Dribbling
What makes Yeferson Soteldo unique is his explosive speed. With short but powerful legs, he accelerates like a rocket, leaving defenders in his wake. His dribbling is low to the ground, inspired by players like Lionel Messi, whom he admires.
Soteldo excels at cutting inside with his right foot, despite being naturally right-footed. His peripheral vision allows for precise passes and surgical assists. Though not tall (1.60m), he uses his low center of gravity to his advantage for quick maneuvers.
Finishing and Versatility
When finishing, Soteldo prefers placed shots, aiming for the corners. He has a repertoire of free kicks and penalties, with a conversion rate above 80%. His versatility allows him to play multiple roles: winger, attacking midfielder, or second striker.
Defensively, he presses high, recovering balls in the opponent’s half. This intensity makes him a complete player, adaptable to various tactical systems.
Career Achievements and Awards
Collective Titles
Soteldo’s resume is impressive for his age. In Venezuela, he won the Primera División twice (2014 and 2015). At Huachipato, he was runner-up in the Chilean league in 2017. With Santos, he won the 2020 Campeonato Paulista and was a Libertadores runner-up in 2020. At Grêmio, he lifted the 2024 Copa do Brasil.
Individual Recognitions
He was named the Venezuelan League Revelation in 2013, Best Young Player in Chile in 2016, and Best Foreign Player in the Brasileirão in 2019. In the MLS, he was MVP of the Month on several occasions. In 2025, he’s a contender for the best South American player in the Brazilian league.
Personal Life and Social Impact
Off the Field
Off the pitch, Soteldo is a devoted father. Married to Venezuelan model Andreína Villegas, the couple has a daughter born in 2020. He values family and uses social media to share personal moments, inspiring fans.
Soteldo is a philanthropist, donating equipment to football academies in Acarigua and supporting anti-hunger initiatives in Venezuela. His humility contrasts with his stardom, keeping him connected to his roots.
Legacy in Venezuela
As one of the few Venezuelans to shine abroad, Soteldo is a symbol of hope for his country. Amid crises, he shows that talent can overcome barriers. Young players see him as a role model, and the Venezuelan federation uses him to promote the sport.
Soteldo’s Future in Football
At 28, Yeferson Soteldo is at the peak of his career. With a contract at Grêmio until 2026, rumors of interest from European clubs like Porto or Sevilla are circulating. He dreams of playing in the Champions League but prioritizes stability.
For the Vinotinto, Soteldo is crucial in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. A qualification would be the pinnacle of his international career. His future promises more glory, cementing him as a living legend of Venezuelan football.
In summary, Yeferson Soteldo is more than a player—he’s an inspiration. From Acarigua to the world’s stadiums, his journey is a testament to perseverance and talent. South American football owes much to him, and fans eagerly await the next chapters of this brilliant story.
(Word count: approximately 2,150. Based on data updated to September 17, 2025.)
