Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera is weighing up a switch of international allegiance from Spain to Colombia, with reports claiming the 21-year-old has been promised a place at the 2026 World Cup. The Gunners star, born in Alicante to Colombian parents, has represented Spain at youth levels but remains uncapped by the senior team.
Mosquera tempted by World Cup promise
Cristhian Mosquera could be set for a major international twist ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Arsenal defender reportedly considering a switch from Spain to Colombia.
According to Diario AS, the Colombian Football Federation has assured the 21-year-old a place in their World Cup squad if he agrees to represent the South American nation. Mosquera, who has featured for Spain’s U15 through U21 sides, has yet to make his senior debut for Luis de la Fuente’s team and remains behind the likes of Robin Le Normand, Dean Huijsen, and Pau Cubarsí in the pecking order.
Born in Alicante, Mosquera holds dual nationality through his Colombian parents, making him eligible to switch under FIFA’s eligibility rules. For the young defender, the chance to play on football’s biggest stage next summer could be too good to turn down.
Arsenal’s £13m bargain impressing under Arteta
Mosquera joined Arsenal this summer from Valencia in a £13 million deal, quickly earning praise from Mikel Arteta for his composure and maturity. The 21-year-old has already made eight appearances across all competitions, stepping in seamlessly when William Saliba was sidelined with injury.
“Thank God we had Mosquera,” Arteta said after the defender’s impressive display against Liverpool. “He’s calm, reads the game well, and fits perfectly into our system.”
His arrival has strengthened Arsenal’s defensive depth, ensuring competition alongside Gabriel Magalhães and Saliba as the Gunners push for both Premier League and Champions League glory.
From La Roja prospect to Colombia target
Having captained Spain’s Under-21 side in 2023, Mosquera was once considered a future cornerstone of La Roja’s defence. However, a lack of senior opportunities has left him open to alternative options — and Colombia are ready to take advantage.
Reports suggest that Néstor Lorenzo, Colombia’s head coach, views Mosquera as an ideal long-term partner for Carlos Cuesta in central defence. The nation is keen to secure his commitment ahead of the World Cup in North America, where Colombia have already built a strong qualifying campaign.
A source close to the Colombian camp told AS: “He’s young, talented, and has roots here. We see him as part of the future — and the World Cup is the perfect place for that story to begin.”
FIFA’s rules on switching nationality
Under Article 9 of FIFA’s eligibility statutes, a player may change national teams if they hold multiple nationalities and have not played a competitive senior match for their current association. Mosquera, having only represented Spain at youth level, meets that criteria.
The rule has seen several recent examples, including Mason Greenwood’s ongoing switch from England to Jamaica. Once a player completes the formal paperwork and FIFA approves the application, they can represent their new country in official competition.
A defining decision ahead of 2026
For Mosquera, the decision now balances ambition against loyalty. Spain offers prestige and legacy, but fierce competition for places; Colombia offers immediate opportunity and the dream of featuring at a World Cup.
Whatever he chooses, the 21-year-old’s rapid rise at Arsenal ensures that both nations are watching closely — and the countdown to his decision has already begun.
