Former Everton defender Yerry Mina is making headlines once again. The Colombian, now with Cagliari, unsettled his opponents in a match against Juventus, leading to a storm of criticism from the Italian media.
Cagliari managed to snatch a point from the Turin giants, whose late goal saved them from defeat. Yet, the post-match chatter focused less on the scoreline and more on Mina’s behaviour.
The Colombian was in constant confrontations with Juventus's attackers, shoving and celebrating his opponents’ blunders right in front of their faces.
Even Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti weighed in on the defender’s antics, questioning his approach.
“Why is he behaving like a clown?”
Italian journalist Giuseppe Cruciani expressed outrage during a podcast discussion, arguing that Mina’s antics showed a complete lack of respect for his opponents.
Cruciani stated:
“Why does a footballer need to act like a clown on the pitch? Sure, he didn’t do anything serious, but there has to be respect for the opponents.”
“Playing the fool just because Weston McKennie couldn’t get to the ball, especially in front of Cagliari's fans, is utterly baffling to me. I think Cagliari’s president needs to step in.”
Another journalist, Ivan Zazzaroni from Corriere dello Sport, reminded listeners that Mina has a history of such behaviour dating back to his time in England.
Zazzaroni replied:
“Yerry has always been like this. I remember him from his time at Everton under Carlo Ancelotti. He has always played this way, very aggressively in duels. Cagliari knows well what kind of player they have in him.”
However, Cruciani wasn’t convinced by this explanation.
He added:
“I can understand tough tackles, but why put on this clownish display so early in the game? It’s like a show from the Harlem Globetrotters.”
“Mina acted just the same way during his time at Everton.”
The Colombian centre-back played for Everton from 2018 to 2023, known not just for his physicality and aerial prowess but also for his frequent attempts to rattle opponents.
His emotional style often drew criticism, particularly when results didn’t go the team’s way. Yet, it has helped him excel for Colombia, as he was one of the standout players during the 2018 World Cup.
From the looks of things, Mina shows no signs of changing his habits since moving to Italy.
Despite the uproar, Mina remains a key figure for Cagliari this season.
The side has conceded only three goals so far, even though Mina has only played two matches due to injury. Nonetheless, he retains a high status in the dressing room, having captained the team against Juventus.
Cagliari appreciates his character and leadership qualities, which are viewed as major assets, despite his controversial behaviour.
While Italian journalists call for Mina to be reined in, the defender continues to embrace his role: battling for every ball, provoking his opponents, and turning an ordinary football match into a personal duel.
