Two World Cups and the demanding English Premier League support the talent of Wilson Palacios, forward of Miami FC. Wilson gives his advice to young people who play soccer.
After an exhausting training session under the direction of Miami FC’s coach, Nesta, Wilson relaxes and smiles when answering questions to SoccerPlus.
How can a professional player adapt to so many changes of weather, time, geographic, cultural?
At first it was not easy. I left Honduras, a place of warm weather to play in England where it’s very cold, and now I’m in Miami. A professional player has to adapt himself to these changes, no matter how strong they are.
You have played in Europe, in two World Cups, you’re a successful player. What’s the key?
Be professional and constant in soccer. You have to work hard and fight for the dream you want to achieve.
Who was the person who influenced you to play soccer?
My family is a family that loves the sport, soccer. My dad was the biggest influence I had because he was a professional soccer player. My dad was the best for us in the family.
What soccer match was memorable to you?
The first match of the 2010 World Cup South Africa, I played with my National Team, Honduras, against Chile. It was the best for me. I had never been to a World Cup. I can never erase that experience from my mind.
How does it feel to be in a World Cup?
Wow! I could not say it in words how it feels. It’s such a strong emotion!
What happens when you do not get the results you expect?
I’m still working hard. Things may don’t go as you wish in a game. But you must keep training and fighting to fulfill your dreams.
What role does family play in your life?
Without a doubt, it’s the most important thing. I live with my three children and my wife in Miami. I also talk daily with my mom and dad. They still scold me if I don’t get in touch with them. In addition, I played with three of my brothers in the 2010 World Cup South Africa. That was very nice for us as family.
Who are your best teammates?
I have very good relationship with everyone, but I’m very close with Jaime Chavez, Corrales and David Sierra.
Did you imagine you would be so successful in soccer?
As a child, I played in the street barefoot, shoeless, with friends. I always had the dream to succeed as a professional player and I worked hard for it.
“I am very happy at Miami FC and we work hard to make things go as we wish.”
WHO IS HE
Born: La Ceiba, Honduras
Age: 31 years old
Favorite food:
Baleadas, and the machuca, (Honduran food)
Favorite place: London
Music: Ballads and punta.
Children: Emily, Elaida y Rene
Parents: Eulogio Palacios, Orfilia Palacios
TEAMS HE PLAYED FOR
Olimpia (Honduras)
Birmingham City (England)
Wigan Athletic (England)
Tottenham Hotspur (England)
Stoke City (England)
Miami Football Club (U.S.A)