Carlos Cuesta Figueroa was born on 9 March 1999 in Medellín, Colombia.

Club Career

Atlético Nacional (2016–2019)

Cuesta began his football career in the youth academy of Atlético Nacional, one of Colombia’s leading clubs. He was promoted to the first team in 2016, marking the start of his professional career. During his time with Atlético Nacional, he won the 2017-I Categoría Primera A and the 2018 Copa Colombia titles.

KRC Genk (2019–2024)

In 2019, Cuesta transferred to Europe, joining Belgian club KRC Genk. He made 135 official appearances for Genk, scoring three goals. He won the Belgian Cup (Croky Cup) in the 2020–21 season. His performances at Genk drew attention for his defensive stability and playmaking ability.

Galatasaray (2024–)

During the winter transfer window of the 2024–25 season, Cuesta moved to Galatasaray of the Turkish Süper Lig. He signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the yellow-and-red club. In his first season at Galatasaray, he featured in both league and European competitions.

Career Statistics

National Team Career

Carlos Cuesta began his national team career in 2015 with the Colombia U17 team. He later represented Colombia at the U20 and U23 levels. He made his debut for the senior national team on 9 September 2021, in a 2022 FIFA World Cup South American qualifier against Chile. Since then, he has become a regular member of the Colombia national team.

Playing Style

Cuesta is a right-footed defender who plays as a centre-back. He stands out for his quick recoveries, positional awareness, ball-winning ability, and accurate passing. His profile fits modern football, and he is also noted for his ability to initiate play from the back.

Career Honours

With Atlético Nacional

• Categoría Primera A: 2017-I
• Copa Colombia: 2018

With KRC Genk

• Belgian Cup: 2020–21

Carlos Cuesta is a defender who has gained significant experience at both youth and senior levels in South America and Europe. He continues his career in Türkiye, wearing the Galatasaray jersey, following his club successes and performances for the Colombia national team.