Paolo Guerrero: between adoration and criticism, the fragility of an idol

In November 2017, a sports editor at RPP named Pierre Manrique was a victim of a virtual lynching for being the first to report on Paolo Guerrero's "adverse analytical result." Insults, death threats, and a viral video in which a coward confronted him on the street were just some of the expressions of hatred he received for simply doing his job. This episode reflects the dehumanization that the Peruvian forward was subjected to when his doping issue was revealed, highlighting the lack of empathy and compassion in certain sectors of society. Amidst that turmoil, where disbelief mixed with confusion about how a cocaine metabolite had entered Guerrero's system, a witch hunt ensued, pointing fingers at anyone close to the player. No one seemed willing to consider the possibility that Paolo, like any human being, could make a mistake. The media pressure and the whirlwind of polarized opinions turned Guerrero into an untouchable figure for many, a deified figure who could not be questioned. Now, in the midst of a new complicated chapter in his career, Paolo Guerrero is once again at the center of controversy. His recent conflict with Universidad César Vallejo, stemming from his refusal to play against Alianza Lima, has once again highlighted the idol's fragility in the face of criticism and his inability to accept mistakes. The reaction of certain sectors of the fans to this episode is again one of denial, as if the mere possibility of Guerrero being wrong were unacceptable. This attitude of shielding around a public figure can only lead to stagnation and a detachment from reality. Paolo Guerrero's current situation reminds us of the concept of 'sidieguismo,' coined by Aldo Proietto in reference to the lack of people who told Diego Maradona "no," which contributed to his decline. Guerrero seems to be trapped in a similar dynamic, surrounded by flatterers who prevent him from seeing clearly and push him towards unnecessary conflicts. The legacy of one of the greatest Peruvian footballers in history deserves a closure in line with his career, far from entanglements and disputes that tarnish his image. It is difficult to understand why Paolo Guerrero decided to prolong his career after his successful stint at Liga de Quito and winning the Copa Sudamericana. The shameful comedy witnessed earlier this year in Trujillo and the recent incidents paint a bleak picture for the forward. It is imperative that someone close to him, someone who truly loves and respects him, speaks to him frankly and helps him recognize his limits. Paolo Guerrero deserves to put an end to this spiral of conflicts and look towards a future where his footballing legacy shines without the shadows of controversy.