Julián Quiñones: From Tumaco to Global Football Stardom

Julián Andrés Quiñones Quiñones, born on March 24, 1997, in the coastal town of Tumaco, Colombia, is a rising star in international football whose journey to prominence is as captivating as his on-field performances. Known for his explosive speed, incredible dribbling skills, and versatile attacking abilities, Quiñones has quickly become one of the most exciting forwards in football. Although he was born in Colombia, his football career has been intricately tied to Mexico, where he represents the Mexican national team. Today, he plays as a forward or winger for the Saudi Pro League club, Al Qadsiah, marking a significant chapter in his international career.

Early Life and Initial Steps in Football

Julián Quiñones' story began in the bustling, often tough, streets of Tumaco, a city located in the southwest region of Colombia. Tumaco, while beautiful, is a place where football becomes more than just a sport—it’s a means of escape, a way out for many young men with dreams of better opportunities. Growing up, Quiñones, like many aspiring footballers, found solace in the game, using his natural talent and passion for the sport as a vehicle for upward mobility.

At a young age, he joined local clubs and quickly showcased his talent. His speed, agility, and ability to cut inside with the ball made him stand out among his peers. Recognizing his potential, Quiñones soon leaped higher-level football, first joining the youth ranks of the Colombian club, Atlético Huila, where he began to make waves as a forward. His time in Colombia was the bedrock of his football development, where he honed his technical skills and laid the foundation for what would become a glittering career.

A Career Shift and International Recognition

Although Quiñones' roots were firmly planted in Colombia, it was Mexico where he would truly shine. In 2017, after impressing scouts in his home country, Quiñones made the move to Liga MX, one of the most competitive and prestigious football leagues in Latin America. His arrival at Club Tigres UANL was a significant moment in his career, marking his entry into the professional Mexican football scene.

At Tigres, Quiñones continued to develop, initially making a name for himself as a dangerous winger capable of taking on defenders with ease. His pace and dribbling were his trademarks, allowing him to be a constant threat on the flank and giving his team a versatile attacking option. Over the course of several seasons, Quiñones became a key player for Tigres, contributing not just with his assists, but also with goals that helped propel his team to domestic success.

It wasn’t long before Quiñones' performances caught the eye of the Mexican national team selectors. Despite being born in Colombia, Quiñones, through his connection to Mexico via his playing career, was granted the opportunity to represent the nation at the international level. His call-up to the Mexican national team was a dream come true for Quiñones, who had built his footballing career in the country and had grown deeply connected to its football culture.

The Move to Saudi Pro League

In 2023, Quiñones made the move to the Saudi Pro League, signing with Al Qadsiah, a club known for attracting international talent and offering fresh opportunities for players looking to make a mark on a new stage. His move to the Middle East marks the next phase of his career, as he seeks to continue developing as a player while facing the challenges of a highly competitive league.

His time at Al Qadsiah has already shown glimpses of his immense potential. Playing alongside seasoned professionals and facing some of the top football talent from around the world, Quiñones is set to become a key figure for the team and continue his rise as a globally recognized football star.

Club Career

Early Career

Julián Andrés Quiñones began his professional journey in football with Tigres UANL, a prominent club in Mexico’s Liga MX. He initially joined the Tigres UANL under-20 squad, where his skills quickly became evident. During the 2015 Apertura season, Quiñones excelled, finishing as the top goal scorer for the youth squad. His performance there earned him recognition and paved the way for a transition to more senior football. His goal-scoring abilities were widely acknowledged, setting the stage for his future successes.

In 2016, Quiñones was loaned out to Venados, an Ascenso MX club. This loan move to the second division was intended to provide Quiñones with more playing time and experience at a competitive level. His time at Venados allowed him to sharpen his attacking instincts and further develop his game. Though his tenure at the club was brief, Quiñones showcased his attacking potential, which would continue to shine in subsequent seasons.

Lobos BUAP

Quiñones’ career took a significant turn in 2017 when he was loaned to Lobos BUAP, a club that had recently earned promotion to Liga MX. This move proved to be a crucial turning point for Quiñones. The 2017 Apertura season saw him become one of the league's top performers. He scored nine goals, finishing as the third-highest scorer of the season, a remarkable achievement for a player still relatively early in his professional journey. His contributions were vital to Lobos BUAP’s attacking efforts, and his performance did not go unnoticed. Quiñones’ flair, versatility, and eye for goal helped solidify his reputation as a promising young talent in Liga MX.

In the following Clausura season of 2018, Quiñones continued his impressive form. Once again, he was the top goal scorer for Lobos BUAP, scoring eight goals. His ability to consistently find the back of the net in a variety of attacking positions further enhanced his profile. Quiñones’ growing confidence and technical prowess were evident, as he became the cornerstone of Lobos BUAP’s offensive play. His performances for the club earned him praise, and the potential for a move to a bigger club was becoming increasingly likely.

Return to Tigres UANL

Despite his successful stint at Lobos BUAP, Quiñones returned to Tigres UANL in the summer of 2018. However, his time back at the club was not as fruitful as anticipated. Tigres’ head coach, Ricardo Ferretti, opted to assign Quiñones a secondary role within the squad. This was despite the player’s impressive performances at Lobos. Quiñones found himself competing for playing time with a star-studded lineup that included established names in Mexican football. Although he had shown his abilities at Lobos, the highly competitive nature of the Tigres squad meant that Quiñones had to patiently wait for his opportunity to make an impact. Nonetheless, his return to Tigres kept him in the fold of one of Liga MX’s most successful clubs, and it was clear that his talent was undeniable, even if his role at Tigres was not as prominent.

Atlas

Quiñones’ breakthrough came in June 2021 when he was loaned to Atlas, another top-tier Mexican club. His time at Atlas marked the next phase of his career, and it was a move that would bring him both success and recognition. On January 7, 2022, his loan move was made permanent after Atlas secured the player. Quiñones would go on to achieve remarkable success with the club. His performances were crucial in Atlas’ historic back-to-back league titles in 2021 and 2022. These victories were significant, as they marked Atlas’ first league title in 70 years, with their last championship having come in 1951. Quiñones was instrumental in their title-winning campaigns, providing both goals and assists while being an integral part of the team’s attacking force. His consistent form, work ethic, and contributions in key moments helped Atlas secure their place in Mexican football history.

América

Following his success with Atlas, Quiñones continued to climb the ranks of Mexican football, and in July 2023, he signed with Club América, one of the most prestigious football clubs in Mexico. América, known for its large fanbase and rich history, reached an agreement with Atlas to acquire Quiñones. This was a new challenge for the forward, as he was now tasked with contributing to the success of one of Mexico’s most successful clubs. His arrival at América was widely celebrated, and it was clear that Quiñones was entering a new chapter in his career, one that would offer more visibility and competition at the highest level of Mexican football.

Al Qadsiah

In June 2024, Quiñones made another career-defining move, this time to the Saudi Pro League. He joined Al Qadsiah, a club in Saudi Arabia, on a four-year contract. This transfer marked a new chapter in his career, as he moved to a league that has been increasingly attracting international talent. The decision to join Al Qadsiah came after several successful years in Mexico, where Quiñones had solidified himself as one of the top forwards in Liga MX. His move to the Saudi Pro League presented a fresh challenge, with a different style of football and a new set of expectations. It also allowed Quiñones to further establish his name on the international stage, as he made the transition to a league that has seen significant growth and exposure in recent years.

Quiñones’ career, from his early days in Colombia to his rise through the ranks in Mexican football and his subsequent move to the Saudi Pro League, reflects his resilience, determination, and undeniable talent. His club career is a testament to his ability to adapt and thrive in different environments, and his continued success across multiple leagues speaks volumes about his professional growth and ambition.

International Career

Colombia

Julián Quiñones began his international career representing Colombia at various youth levels. His first significant involvement with the national team came in 2017 when he participated in the South American U-20 Championship. This tournament was a crucial part of his development as a player, offering him the opportunity to showcase his skills on a continental stage against some of the best young talent in South America. Quiñones’ performances in the tournament helped build his reputation as a promising forward, and he continued to represent Colombia in subsequent international fixtures. Later, he also played in the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games, where he further impressed with his performances, making a mark in regional competitions. His time with the Colombian youth teams solidified his potential as an emerging star in South American football.

However, in May 2023, Quiñones made the decision to decline a call-up to the Colombia national team. Despite his early involvement in the national setup, this marked a turning point in his international career, as he expressed a growing interest in representing Mexico at the senior level, a decision that would later have a profound impact on his career trajectory.

Mexico

In September 2023, Quiñones received an invitation to train with the Mexico national team, marking the beginning of his transition to a new international chapter. The player had long harbored an interest in representing Mexico, and the opportunity to join the senior squad was a significant moment in his career. Quiñones had previously expressed his desire to play for Mexico, a country that he had developed a strong connection with, both personally and professionally, through his years in Liga MX. His invitation to train with the national team was seen as a step closer to making his debut for the country.

On 11 October 2023, Quiñones completed his naturalization process, officially becoming a Mexican citizen. This was a pivotal moment in his career, as it cleared the way for him to join the Mexico national team as a full international player. With his naturalization completed, Quiñones became eligible to represent his new national team on the international stage, marking a significant shift in his footballing identity.

The culmination of Quiñones’ pursuit of playing for Mexico came on 9 November 2023, when he received his first official call-up to the Mexico national team. This call-up was a major milestone, as it signified his official integration into one of the top footballing nations in North America. The excitement surrounding his inclusion in the national team squad was palpable, with many fans and analysts eager to see how he would perform at the highest level.

Quiñones made his highly anticipated debut for Mexico on 17 November 2023, during a CONCACAF Nations League match against Honduras. His first appearance in a competitive match for Mexico was a proud moment for both the player and his new supporters. Quiñones quickly adapted to the rigours of international football, showcasing his skills and contributing to his team's efforts. His debut performance was the start of a promising international career with Mexico.

On 21 March 2024, Quiñones reached another career milestone when he scored his first goal for Mexico in a semi-final match of the CONCACAF Nations League against Panama. His goal, which came in the 43rd minute of the match, was a testament to his attacking prowess and composure. The strike helped Mexico secure a 3-0 victory, sending them to the final of the competition. Quiñones’ debut goal for Mexico further solidified his place in the squad, and it was clear that he had the potential to make a significant impact on the international stage. His quick adaptation and goal-scoring ability made him an immediate asset to the team, and his future with the Mexico national team looked incredibly promising.

Julián Quiñones' international journey, from representing Colombia at youth levels to becoming a key player for Mexico, reflects his growth as a footballer and his determination to succeed at the highest levels of the game. His switch to Mexico was a strategic and personal decision that has allowed him to flourish in the international arena, and his early performances for the national team suggest that he will play a key role in Mexico’s future footballing endeavours.

Playing Style

Julián Quiñones is a versatile forward who has earned a reputation for his explosive pace, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess. His playing style is characterized by his direct approach to attacking, coupled with a natural flair for dribbling and a strong physical presence. Quiñones can play as a winger or a forward, showcasing adaptability across various attacking positions. His ability to drift across the frontline and create space for himself and his teammates makes him a constant threat to opposition defences.

One of the standout features of Quiñones' game is his speed. His acceleration allows him to beat defenders in one-on-one situations, and he is particularly dangerous when driving toward goal on the counter-attack. This speed, combined with his agility, allows him to shift directions quickly, making it difficult for defenders to anticipate his next move. Quiñones often uses his pace to exploit wide areas, stretching the opposition and creating space for his teammates in the process.

In addition to his speed, Quiñones is known for his dribbling ability. He possesses excellent close control and can weave in and out of defenders with ease. His ball control is precise, allowing him to take on opponents in tight spaces and maintain possession in challenging situations. His dribbling skills are complemented by his vision, which enables him to pick out key passes and link up play effectively with other attacking players. Quiñones' ability to combine individual flair with a team-oriented approach has made him a valuable asset to his club teams.

Quiñones' technical skills also extend to his shooting. He has a powerful and accurate shot, capable of scoring from various positions on the field. Whether from outside the box or in tight spaces, he is known for his clinical finishing ability. His shot accuracy and composure in front of goal have helped him become a consistent goal scorer, and his ability to find the back of the net in critical moments has earned him recognition as one of the top attacking talents in Liga MX.

Furthermore, Quiñones has a strong work ethic and is known for his pressing abilities when out of possession. He is not afraid to track back and help his team defensively, providing support to his fullbacks or defensive midfielders when needed. His ability to press high up the pitch and win possession back quickly makes him an asset in counter-pressing situations. Quiñones' energy and commitment to both attacking and defending reflect his all-around contribution to his team's tactical setup.

His versatility allows Quiñones to operate across various offensive roles. As a winger, he can stretch the pitch and deliver crosses into the box for his teammates, using his dribbling skills and pace to get past defenders. When playing as a central forward, Quiñones' movement off the ball is key, as he frequently makes intelligent runs into dangerous areas, creating goal-scoring opportunities for himself and others.

Overall, Julián Quiñones' playing style is marked by his speed, dribbling ability, goal-scoring instincts, and versatility. He is a dynamic forward who is always looking to create chances and cause problems for opposing defenses. His technical ability, combined with his physical attributes, makes him a constant threat on the field and a key player for both his club and the Mexico national team.

Personal Life

Julián Andrés Quiñones was born on March 24, 1997, in the town of Barranquilla, Colombia. Growing up in a modest household, Quiñones has often spoken about his humble beginnings and the challenges he faced early in life. His family was very supportive of his dreams, and his love for football started at an early age. His childhood was marked by a strong passion for the game, and he quickly developed his skills playing on the streets and local fields of his hometown.

Quiñones is known to be a family-oriented person, and he has always emphasized the importance of his family's support in his career. His parents, who have been integral to his upbringing, made many sacrifices to help him pursue his football ambitions. In interviews, Quiñones has mentioned how his family’s sacrifices and encouragement helped him stay focused on his goals. He has expressed his deep gratitude toward his parents for believing in his abilities and pushing him to succeed.

While Quiñones has largely kept his private life out of the media spotlight, he has occasionally shared glimpses of his life away from football. He is an active social media user, frequently posting on platforms such as Instagram. Through his posts, he often shares moments with his friends and teammates, and also highlights his connection with his family. His social media presence reflects his positive and motivational personality, often sharing inspirational messages to his followers.

Quiñones’ journey has been one of perseverance and hard work, and he has often spoken about his early struggles. He has mentioned how difficult it was for him to make it as a professional footballer in Colombia, but his relentless drive and commitment to the sport helped him break through. His personal story is one of resilience, and he continues to inspire young footballers who aspire to make it professionally.

In 2023, Quiñones made a life-changing decision to represent Mexico in international football, a choice that has garnered significant attention. Despite being born in Colombia and having represented the country in youth competitions, Quiñones chose to pursue a future with the Mexican national team. This decision was a reflection of his strong ties to Mexico, where he had spent significant time playing for clubs like Atlas. He completed his naturalization process in 2023 and made his debut for Mexico in November of the same year. This new chapter in his career was significant not only for his football journey but also in terms of his personal life, as it marked the beginning of his international career with a new national team.

Although Quiñones has spent a considerable amount of time away from home due to his professional commitments, he has remained closely connected to his roots in Colombia and his new home in Mexico. He has spoken fondly of both countries, expressing his pride in representing Mexico while also maintaining his connection to his Colombian heritage. His ability to adapt to different cultures and environments has been one of the defining aspects of his career.

Outside of football, Quiñones enjoys spending time with close friends and engaging in various activities that help him relax. He has occasionally mentioned his love for music and enjoys listening to various genres. He also takes part in charity events and has used his platform to give back to communities in need, particularly in Colombia, where he supports local youth football initiatives. Through his philanthropic efforts, Quiñones hopes to inspire young people and provide opportunities for those who are less fortunate.

Quiñones’ personal life reflects his dedication to both his career and his family. His values of hard work, loyalty, and perseverance continue to shape his journey, and he remains grounded despite his rising success in the football world.

Career Statistics

Club

Season	League	National Cup	Continental	Other	Total
Venados (loan)	2015–16	Ascenso MX	14 (3)	6 (3)	20 (6)
Tigres UANL	2016–17	Liga MX	7 (0)	0 (0)	3 (1)	10 (1)
	2018–19	Liga MX	25 (6)	4 (1)	6 (2)	35 (9)
	2019–20	Liga MX	4 (0)	—	2 (0)	6 (0)
	2020–21	Liga MX	23 (2)	—	1 (0)	24 (2)
Total			59 (8)	4 (1)	11 (3)	75 (12)
Lobos BUAP (loan)	2017–18	Liga MX	28 (17)	0 (0)	—	28 (17)
Atlas	2021–22	Liga MX	43 (14)	—	1 (1)	44 (15)
	2022–23	Liga MX	35 (18)	—	3 (1)	39 (21)
Total			78 (32)	3 (2)	3 (2)	83 (36)
América	2023–24	Liga MX	41 (18)	—	7 (4)	52 (23)
Al-Qadsiah	2024–25	Saudi Pro League	17 (13)	3 (5)	—	20 (18)
Career Total			237 (91)	13 (9)	21 (9)	278 (112)

Honours and Achievements

Club Honours

Tigres UANL
Julián Quiñones enjoyed success during his time with Tigres UANL, winning several prestigious titles. He was part of the squad that triumphed in the Liga MX tournaments, securing the Apertura 2016 and Clausura 2019 championships. His contributions were pivotal in Tigres' CONCACAF Champions League victory in 2020, showcasing his impact on the club’s success in both domestic and continental competitions.

Atlas
At Atlas, Quiñones helped the club achieve remarkable success, most notably leading them to their first Liga MX title in decades. The team won the Apertura 2021 and Clausura 2022 championships, ending a long wait for top-tier league success. Additionally, he played a significant role in Atlas’ victory in the Campeón de Campeones in 2022, further cementing his reputation as a key player in their title runs.

América
Quiñones’ transfer to Club América saw him continue to add silverware to his collection. With América, he contributed to winning both the Apertura 2023 and Clausura 2024 Liga MX titles, solidifying his place as one of the prominent players in Mexican football. His efforts were also crucial in their success in the Campeón de Campeones of 2024, securing another major honour during his time at the club.

International Honours

Colombia U-20
Quiñones was part of the Colombia U-20 team that won the Central American and Caribbean Games in 2018, adding an important achievement to his early international career.

Individual Honours

Throughout his career, Quiñones has received individual accolades for his performances on the field. He was awarded the Central American and Caribbean Games Top Scorer in 2018 for his outstanding attacking displays. He was also named to the Liga MX Best XI for the Clausura 2022 season, recognizing his remarkable contributions to Atlas’ success. Additionally, Quiñones was honoured as the Liga MX Best Offensive Midfielder for the 2021–22 season, reflecting his skill and consistency in creating and finishing opportunities. His inclusion in the Liga MX All-Star team in 2022 further highlighted his stature within the league.

Through his club and international achievements, as well as individual recognition, Julián Quiñones has firmly established himself as a standout player in both Mexican and international football.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, Julián Quiñones has the potential to continue making significant strides in both club and international football. At Al Qadsiah, he will have the opportunity to showcase his talents in a new competitive environment, bringing his skillset to the Saudi Pro League and further developing his career in the Middle East. His previous experiences in Liga MX with Tigres UANL, Atlas, and América have proven his ability to perform at the highest level, and he could now become a key player for his new team, helping them compete in domestic and continental competitions.

On the international stage, Quiñones’ recent call-up to the Mexico national team has sparked excitement, and with his debut already behind him, he looks poised to contribute to the team in future matches, including World Cup qualifiers and regional tournaments like the CONCACAF Nations League. His strong performances with América, where he won league titles and individual accolades, demonstrate his capacity to handle pressure and deliver on the big stage.

With his continued growth and adaptability, Quiñones’ career trajectory suggests that he could soon become one of the most influential players in both Mexico and international football, achieving even more success and leaving a lasting legacy in the game.