Julián Quiñones is a professional footballer. He plays as a forward or winger for Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia. He was born in Colombia but represents Mexico internationally. He started at an amateur club in Cali, Colombia, scoring 50 goals in 38 matches during the 2014-2015 season. That got him recruited by Tigres UANL for their under‑20 team.
He played for Colombia at youth levels but turned down a senior call‑up in May 2023. Instead, he joined Mexico’s training camp that September, finished his naturalization in October, and got his first call‑up in November.
In June 2024, Quiñones joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah for a reported fee of $16 million, which made him the most expensive player ever sold by a Mexican club. He finished the 2024–25 season with 20 goals. On 21 May 2026, he scored a hat‑trick in a 5–1 away win over Al‑Ittihad. On 25 May, Quiñones renewed his contract with the club until 2029.
He made his Mexico debut in a Nations League match against Honduras on 17 November. His first goal came on 21 March 2024 against Panama in a 3‑0 win. On 11 June 2026, he scored the opening goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in a 2‑0 win over South Africa.
5 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Julián Quiñones
The Barefoot Boy Who Hid from Meals
As a kid in Magüí Payán, Julián played football barefoot on the streets. His passion was so extreme that he sometimes didn’t even come home to eat. His parents had to go to the pitch and find him. That barefoot childhood on rough roads was his first training ground. No shoes, but endless hunger for the ball.
‘Fútbol Paz’ – The Project That Saved Him
Growing up in the “Telembí Triangle,” a region hit hard by guerrilla violence, football became his lifeline. Through a social programme called Fútbol Paz, which kept young people away from conflict, Julián got his first big chance. He tried out at 15, scored four goals in his first practice match, and was accepted. That door got him out of a very harsh reality.
Raised by Women After His Father Left
Julián’s father abandoned him when he was very young. So he grew up surrounded by his mother, grandmother, and three sisters. They were the ones who, despite all the hardship, taught him discipline and humility. That matriarchal home was his main emotional support. No father figure, but plenty of strong women who believed in him.
‘Mexico Gave Me Peace, I Gave It My Goal’
After eight years living in Mexico, Julián became a Mexican citizen in October 2023. Colombia tried to convince him to play for them, but he chose Mexico as a way of saying thank you. His words say it all: “Mexico gave me the mental peace I once dreamed of.” His opening goal at the World Cup sealed that commitment perfectly.
Beat Ronaldo to the Saudi League Golden Boot
Julián didn’t just shine at the World Cup. In the 2025-26 Saudi League season, playing for Al Qadsiah, he scored 33 goals and won the Golden Boot. He finished ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo (28 goals) and Ivan Toney (32). That achievement put him on the global radar before his historic World Cup performance in Mexico.
FAQs
Q. Which club does Julián Quiñones play for?
A. Julián Quiñones plays for Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia.
Q. Where was Julián Quiñones born?
A. Julián Quiñones was born in Colombia.
Q. Which national team does Julián Quiñones represent?
A. Julián Quiñones represents Mexico at the international level.
Q. When did Julián Quiñones make his Mexico debut?
A. Julián Quiñones made his Mexico debut against Honduras on 17 November 2023.
Q. What did Julián Quiñones achieve at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
A. Julián Quiñones scored the opening goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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