Pellistri: Playing at the World Cup is a privilege
Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri is hopeful of making his World Cup tournament debut for Uruguay at Qatar 2022, having become a key member of Diego Alonso’s team since making his international bow in January.
Still just 20 years old, Pellistri is now part of a team which features his childhood icons, former Red Edinson Cavani, Luis Suarez and Diego Godin.
Ahead of this year’s tournament, Facundo sat down with club media for an exclusive interview, and explained exactly what the World Cup means to him.
Pellistri: The World Cup is special
Facundo Pellistri assesses Uruguay's chances at Qatar 2022 and the prospect of making his World Cup debut...
“It is very special, not only for me,” he said. “But, for me, [it’s amazing], because, if I play [in] the [2022] World Cup, it’s going to be my first.
“If everything goes well and it’s my first World Cup, it will be… I think I can’t describe this sensation because the biggest tournament in the world is the World Cup and being able to play [in it] is a privilege.
“Of course, it would make me happy, but not only me, my family and all my surroundings [also].”
Facundo made his senior international debut for La Celeste in January, and has since made seven appearances for his nation.
Such is his rise into the Uruguay fold, the wide midfielder now rubs shoulders with players he used to watch on the TV as a child.
“There are [Edinson] Cavani, [Luis] Suarez, [Diego] Godin, they are very top players [whom I admired growing up],” he said. “Of course, [Diego] Forlan was the best player in the [2010 World Cup] but now he’s not playing anymore.
“I actually train with Suarez, Cavani, Godin and all those kinds of players, who are legends in Uruguay and I’m really happy to share the pitch with them.
“Playing for your country is one of the best things a football player can achieve, and I already made my debut. Of course, each match and every opportunity I have with the national team, I want to enjoy and have fun playing. For a player, being with the national team is the best.”