From Medellín to European Stardom: Munoz’s Inspiring Journey

Munoz’s ascent in European football has been anything but conventional. Raised in Medellín—a city once notorious for cartel violence and some of Colombia’s most perilous neighborhoods—he faced numerous challenges from an early age.

“I come from a difficult neighborhood,” he shared with the Belgian newspaper HLN. “One of the toughest in Colombia. There are few options. I don’t believe that you understand this in Belgium. Young people there have opportunities to pursue their dreams more freely.

“It has been a struggle for me and my family. I have experienced moments that have profoundly shaped who I am, such as the loss of several friends. I have witnessed a lot: death, hooliganism, robbery… it is a different world where outcomes are not always favorable. At one point, I had to make a choice. Which path do I want to take? Do I want to follow the same trajectory as one of my friends? Or do I forge a different path and make the most of my situation? I chose the latter.”

These experiences fortified him, enabling him to develop into both a player and a person who comprehends adversity far more deeply than most. Before he even set foot on a professional pitch, Munoz was an active member of the ultras at Atletico Nacional, standing alongside Los del Sur, passionately supporting the club he loved. At the age of 16, he left the stands to pursue football full-time.

His early years with Aguilas Doradas saw him compete in nearly 100 matches in Colombia’s top division before fulfilling his childhood ambition of joining Atletico Nacional in 2019. Within less than two seasons, he ascended to the position of team captain.

His outstanding performances caught the attention of European scouts, leading Genk to sign him for €4.5 million, where he thrived as the standout right-back in the Jupiler League. Crystal Palace subsequently seized the opportunity to secure him on a four-year deal. Since then, Munoz has become an integral component of Glasner’s high-intensity tactical setup. He played a crucial role in assisting the goal that helped the Eagles secure the FA Cup last season, and his consistent performances have reportedly attracted interest from clubs like Barcelona and PSG.

Speaking candidly to the Colombian outlet AS about the persistent rumors linking him to major European clubs, Munoz stated, “First and foremost, there is a lot of speculation surrounding various clubs. If you ask me, it would be a dream come true to play for any of these teams, whether it’s Barcelona, PSG, Real Madrid, or Manchester United.”

He did not shy away from expressing the ambition that propels his career forward: “I believe I am working towards that goal; I strive every day to one day catch the attention of these clubs because it’s my dream to reach that level.”

However, the defender quickly clarified that he remains committed to his responsibilities at Crystal Palace. “Right now, I’m focused on my club and on performing well at Crystal Palace,” he emphasized. “I don’t have any concrete information about interest from these clubs. My focus is solely on Crystal Palace; I’ll consider things as the winter transfer window approaches. For now, my mind is on the upcoming matches with the national team.”

For Palace supporters, his remarks may evoke a blend of emotions. On one hand, his ambition to elevate his career and play for elite European teams is entirely natural. Conversely, his contributions have been vital to the club’s transformation under Glasner. With a contract with the Eagles until 2028, any suitors will need to offer a substantial transfer fee to entice him away from London. In the immediate future, Munoz will participate in Colombia’s upcoming international fixtures against New Zealand and Australia during the November break. After returning to London, he will turn his attention to Palace’s next Premier League match against Wolves on November 22.