Dani Hernández, formerly a goalkeeper for Club Deportivo Tenerife, finds himself in an emotional crossroad due to his dual heritage. Born in Venezuela to Canarian parents, he feels a profound connection to both territories, often joking that in Venezuela he is considered Spanish and in the Canary Islands, Venezuelan. This duality intensifies his focus on the recent earthquakes that have affected his country of birth.
His grandparents initiated the migration, crossing the Atlantic in search of better opportunities. His father worked in the family's spare parts business while his mother pursued university studies in Venezuela, where he and his brother were born. The family returned to the Canary Islands when Dani was just one year old.
Although his childhood memories of Venezuela are scarce, his dual nationality allowed him to forge significant bonds when he was called up to the Venezuelan national football team at the age of 24. Venezuelan traditions, such as the weekly arepas and cachapas, and family gatherings to watch matches, have always been present in his home.
“"In Venezuela they say I'm Spanish and here, that I'm Venezuelan. I've always felt from both sides."
He is currently closely following the news about the devastation caused by the earthquakes. Seeing images from La Guaira, the city where he was born, he asks his mother if she recognizes affected buildings or areas, concerned about his former home and that of his friends.
The footballer recounts experiencing "days of anguish" due to communication difficulties that prevented him from contacting some of his national team friends. Fortunately, he confirmed that both his friends and their families are safe.
