Nestor Lorenzo confirms Colombia will keep iconic No. 10 shirt after James Rodriguez exit
Colombia head coach Nestor Lorenzo has confirmed that the iconic number 10 jersey will remain in circulation following the international retirement of James Rodriguez.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Public domain / Author: Fotografía oficial de la Presidencia de Colombia
The uncertainty surrounding Colombia's iconic shirt has been put to rest following the international retirement of their legendary captain, James Rodriguez, on September 15. The midfielder's exit after a 131-cap career initially sparked speculation regarding whether the number 10 would be temporarily shelved, but head coach Nestor Lorenzo has clarified that it will be immediately passed to the next generation.
Speaking at the squad announcement, the Argentine tactician insisted that the jersey remains in circulation and is ready to be earned by emerging talent. Dismissing talk of retiring the shirt, Lorenzo said: "The number 10 shirt will certainly be worn, and it is a shirt of great honour for Colombia, but there are players capable of wearing it and performing well. We see the raw talent is there, and the next '10' will soon emerge to win the fans' hearts all over again."
With Juan Fernando Quintero also stepping aside from international duty, the creative mantle now falls to an exciting pool of attacking midfielders. Energetic youngster Yaser Asprilla stands out as a prime candidate alongside experienced operator Jhon Arias and fresh face Juan Manuel Rengifo.
The official heir to the vacated shirt will be revealed once the squad gathers in training camp ahead of upcoming friendlies. A demanding series of exhibition matches against Mexico, Paraguay, and Peru will serve as a vital proving ground for the chosen number 10 to step out of the legend's shadow and prove their worth in Lorenzo's tactical system.