On January 25, 2025, Cuban footballer Marcel Hernández Campanioni spoke publicly about the seven-match suspension he faced from the Costa Rican Football Federation (FEDEFÚTBOL) due to incidents arising from his involvement in a brawl following the final match against Liga Deportiva Alajuelense.

On December 27, Herediano was crowned national champions after a contentious final.

Following the match, Hernández was involved in a physical altercation with fans and rival players.

Prior to a subsequent match against Saprissa, Hernández hinted at a personal challenge he had set for himself, choosing not to reveal specifics.

He stated, "There is a goal I want to achieve, but I won't say it; first, I need to fulfill it.

At the end of the tournament, we will see what Marcel's objective was."

During the celebration of Herediano's 31st title at Estadio Carlos Alvarado, Hernández was reminded by fans of his previously hinted challenge.

He responded with a broad smile, confirming that his aim was to become a two-time champion.

"There needed to be a legacy, to make history, and I am achieving this thanks to God.

We wanted to do it for ourselves, for the fans, but especially for Yendrick (Ruiz), who announced his retirement, and we wanted him to leave as a two-time champion, keeping the promise," he added.

Since his arrival in Costa Rica, Hernández has firmly established himself as a prolific scorer, noted for his tenacity and willingness to face challenges.

"Everything I do is a record.

Now the next step is to continue enjoying, growing as a person and as a player, and to keep providing my teammates with the best version of Marcel.

It's essential to maintain mental strength and surround yourself with a great group that motivates you to keep growing, both individually and collectively," he stated.

Despite initial skepticism regarding his nationality, Hernández has transcended such concerns, becoming a remarkable presence in Costa Rican football.

"I came to this country as a Cuban, with everything against me, and today this reflects a lot of sacrifice, being away from my homeland for ten years.

This is for my family and friends, who unfortunately cannot be with me at these moments, but I know they are always supporting me," Hernández remarked.

With three scoring titles and three national championships—highlighting the historic title with Cartaginés and the recent back-to-back championships with Herediano—Hernández has left an indelible mark on the league.

He acknowledged, "A Cuban came to this country to break all barriers, that is the reality.

It is beautiful to be a champion.

We broke a 46-year streak by becoming two-time champions with Herediano, and we achieved the title with Cartaginés after 81 years.

That means the sacrifices were worth it, with hard work and professionalism."

Hernández has played 270 matches in Costa Rica's Primera División, representing Cartaginés, Alajuelense, and Herediano, scoring a total of 141 goals in the top tier.

He currently stands six goals away from entering the top 10 all-time scorers in the league, positioned at number 12, behind Johan Venegas (144 goals), Erick Scott, and Alejandro Alpízar (both with 147 goals).

"I know I have marked an era, seizing the opportunity, and we have elevated the name of the Cuban footballer.

Now I hope to rest, visit my family, who are spread across the globe, and return with renewed energy to continue breaking records with God’s help," Hernández concluded.