Yerry Fernando Mina González

Mina began his formal football development at Deportivo Pasto, joining their youth setup when he was 18. Initially encouraged to play different positions, he settled as a centre-back under the guidance of his coaches and his uncle, Jair Mina.

Yerry Mina made his professional debut with Deportivo Pasto in 2013 before quickly transferring to Independiente Santa Fe. In Bogotá, he rapidly blossomed into a domestic star, winning the Categoría Primera A and the prestigious 2015 Copa Sudamericana, where he was rightfully named Young Player of the Year. His incredibly impressive domestic form earned him a major move to Brazilian giants Palmeiras in 2016.

In Brazil, he continued his rapid ascent, winning the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and earning a spot in the league's Team of the Year. His rapid rise culminated in a historic transfer to FC Barcelona in January 2018, making him the very first Colombian to play an official match for the famed Catalan club. Though his time in Spain was short, he was part of the squad that won the domestic double.

That summer, following a genuinely sensational performance at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, he signed with Everton in the English Premier League for over €30 million. At Everton, Mina spent five seasons battling against the absolute best attackers in England. While his time on Merseyside was sometimes interrupted by injuries, he was a massive fan favorite known for his crucial goals and passionate defending.

After his contract with Everton expired in 2023, he moved to Italy, initially signing a short-term deal with Fiorentina before transferring to Cagliari in early 2024. As of 2026, Mina remains a robust defensive anchor for Cagliari in Serie A, utilizing his vast experience to marshal the backline and contribute key goals from set-pieces. He has adapted well to the tactical rigors of Italian football.

Internationally, he is an iconic, larger-than-life figure for Colombia. He holds the incredible record for the most goals scored by a defender in a single World Cup tournament, netting three crucial headers in 2018. He continues to be a regular, highly trusted starter for the national squad, bringing physical grit and leadership to major tournaments.

Yerry Mina was born into a family with deep football roots in Guachené, Colombia; his father and uncle both played the sport professionally, with his uncle Jair now acting as his primary agent. He is a devout Christian and a committed member of a neo-Pentecostal church, frequently pointing to the sky in prayer during his trademark goal celebrations. His faith is a central pillar of his daily life and career.

Mina is married to his longtime partner Yeraldine Molina, and they welcomed their first child, a daughter named Kristine, in recent years. Known for his incredibly joyful and upbeat demeanor, Mina is famous for his vibrant, choreographed dance moves, which he frequently breaks out after scoring important goals. He brings a universally praised positive energy to every locker room he enters.

Off the pitch, he founded the Yerry Mina Foundation in his hometown of Guachené. The charity provides critical social support, education, and modern sports infrastructure to local children. His foundation aims to keep at-risk youth away from violence and poverty by offering them a safe and constructive pathway through athletics.