Ecuador team beset by ‘Piso 17’ scandal and captain’s resignation doubts

Former Ecuador goalkeeper Maximo Banguera said he was staying on the same floor (floor 17) where the controversial 2019 Copa América meeting took place, but he did not participate in it. He questioned why the issue resurfaced amid criticism of the national team’s World Cup 2026 performance, stating, "No se habló, no se investigó, no se sancionó, ¿por qué hablarlo después de siete años?" Banguera also defended the older generation of players and blamed the current football leadership for recent shortcomings.

Captain Hernán Galíndez revealed he seriously considered leaving the Ecuador national team after enduring harsh criticism from fans and former players, who questioned his role as a naturalised Argentine captain. He said the pressure made him think about early retirement, but a public gesture of support from Enner Valencia convinced him to stay. Galíndez’s comments highlight the mental‑health strain on players as the squad rebuilds for upcoming international fixtures.