Smile, stretch out his hand, greet, and show willingness to talk about this new and ambitious stage in his career after not showing his best version at Monterrey in Mexico.
Red cap, white shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes. That's how Yimmi Chará Zamora, 24 years old and newest signing of Atlético Nacional,appeared in the city of Medellín to begin his story in the emerging team of Reinaldo Rueda.
The forward from Valle de Cauca, the one who has more than one fan happy because he meets expectations with his dribbling and speed, showed in his talk that he knows perfectly well the institution he is joining. And he understands it so well that he admits that playing beautiful football and winning titles is the only thing that will reserve him a place among the Verdolaga legends.
In the midst of medical check-ups and paperwork, Chará spoke with As Colombia about his challenges with Nacional, the style of football he wants to play, his experience abroad, and the desire to fit in quickly in his new club, where he promises good competition with 'Manga' Escobar and Jonathan Copete.
How do you feel on your first day in the city of Medellín?
"I am very happy to be here. Being at Nacional was something I always aspired to and wanted to achieve. Now I hope that everything goes well. I am expectant and with the idea of achieving many things for my career and for the institution."
Why did you say yes to the offer from Atlético Nacional?
"I said yes to Nacional because of the project and the institution. This is a very respected club in South America, especially in Colombia. I want to take on this challenge with a lot of responsibility and motivation. I hope to have many successes at Nacional."
What does it mean to work with a coach like Reinaldo Rueda?
"We all know the trajectory of 'profe' Rueda and what he has achieved. Working with a coach like him is something that always attracts. I hope that as the training sessions go by, I can adapt to what he wants and achieve results as quickly as possible. I haven't been able to talk to him yet."
Rueda and Redín want this Nacional to play good football...
"Nacional has had a style of play for many years and many good players have come here. I don't think that will change because that's what the fans like, for their team to play good football and keep the ball on the ground. I will try to make it happen."
How do you imagine that competition with 'Manga', Copete, and the other forwards?
"It's a challenge that I decided to take on. I know I will have to compete for a spot because at Nacional there are players with a very good trajectory and experience. That competition with them is going to be very nice (...) It's motivating to have teammates like that. Here, you can't let your guard down because I will always have someone next to me competing."
You already know the players who will be your 'competition', but do you have any friends at Nacional?
"I played with 'Manga' Escobar (in Valle). I also played with Yulián (Mejía) in Tolima. With others, I couldn't do it, but I have created a good friendship and they are acquaintances from football. It is important for me to be able to join a group like this."
There are many talented players who couldn't handle the pressure of playing at Nacional...
"Yes, there is pressure. This team is used to winning and lifting trophies. But that's what I always want, to have those kinds of challenges. That's the beauty of this career."
You didn't play much in Mexico and you are coming from a break due to vacations. What level are you at?
"I have to try to be fit to play as quickly as possible because the tournament starts soon. I know there are players at Nacional who are in a good moment, and I have to deliver results as quickly as possible."
How have you changed after your time in Mexican football?
"You always learn. This is day by day. I am very happy here. I will try to keep learning and bring a lot of joy to the team."
Juan Carlos Osorio always wanted to bring you to Nacional...
"Yes, I always knew about the interest of 'profe' Osorio. We communicated a couple of times. Unfortunately, I couldn't come at that time. But well, I'm here now and with the idea of taking advantage of this beautiful opportunity."