Former coach Jorge Luis Pinto harshly criticises Néstor Lorenzo and demands the departure of ten players, led by James Rodríguez, after Colombia's elimination from the 2026 World Cup.
The former Colombian coach Jorge Luis Pinto has launched one of the most severe criticisms against the current management of the Colombia national team, calling for a deep renewal following their elimination from the 2026 World Cup. In an interview with Blu Radio, the Santander-born coach pointed out that the cycle of several key players has already ended and that the team urgently needs a change.
"About 10 players need to go, led by James (Rodríguez), whom the coach fell in love with, thinking he would perform, but he did not. But these are decisions made by coaches, and sometimes we get it wrong," Pinto stated candidly. The veteran strategist, 73, believes that the 'Tricolor' must initiate a process of absolute generational renewal.
Criticism of Néstor Lorenzo's management
Pinto not only targeted the players but also the coaching staff led by Néstor Lorenzo. He questioned the tactical and squad decisions during the World Cup, particularly the isolation of Luis Díaz in the attack. "Luis Díaz lacked a midfielder to support him in collective play. The team did not help him, and he, individually, could not find his form in the World Cup," he explained.
He also criticised Lorenzo's substitutions in key matches, such as the removal of Jhon Arias against Switzerland, which sealed Colombia's elimination. He lamented the lack of offensive alternatives, suggesting that "not taking, for example, another striker" was a planning mistake.
A structural problem: hierarchy is trained
Beyond individual names, Pinto expanded his criticism towards the foundations of Colombian football. For him, the elimination reflects deficiencies in daily work. "Hierarchy is built; that was what we lacked, building it through training: how to press, how to attack, that is where hierarchy begins to develop in a team and among players," he concluded.
Pinto's statements, with his characteristic direct style, add pressure on Lorenzo and open the debate on whether the 'old guard' should make way for a generational renewal. Meanwhile, the Colombian Football Federation is evaluating the future of the coaching position ahead of the next World Cup cycle.
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