Colombia’s national team manager, Nestor Lorenzo, reflects on his team’s recent success and the unique connection he feels with the Colombian people. Despite his team’s unbeaten run of 27 matches, Lorenzo remains grounded and focused on the next match rather than dwelling on past achievements. He emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement for his team to become true contenders or champions.
Lorenzo’s appointment as Colombia manager in 2022 was met with some skepticism, as many preferred a Colombian coach. However, he gained the support of the public by showcasing his ideas and vision for the team. One bold decision he made was to include James Rodriguez in his squad, despite the midfielder’s struggles at his club. Lorenzo personally flew to Qatar to convince Rodriguez to play in a stronger league and was impressed by his commitment to the national team.
Rodriguez has since repaid Lorenzo’s faith, becoming a key player in the team and delivering standout performances in the Copa America tournament. His set pieces have been particularly impressive, drawing comparisons to David Beckham. Lorenzo adjusted his team’s formation to accommodate Rodriguez and create a stronger midfield presence. The team’s attacking options, such as Luis Diaz and Jhon Cordoba, provide a well-rounded offensive threat.
Despite Colombia’s success, Lorenzo remains humble and focused on the upcoming semifinal against Uruguay. He acknowledges Uruguay’s strong team and Marcelo Bielsa’s coaching prowess. Referring to the physical nature of Uruguay’s play, Lorenzo emphasizes the need for referees to protect players and maintain control over fouls.
Lorenzo’s journey to becoming a manager was unconventional, waiting until the age of 54 to take on his first head coaching job. He turned down an offer from Swansea City in 2017 to remain loyal to the Colombian national team during a challenging period. His experience playing under Carlos Bilardo in the 1990 World Cup final shaped his coaching style, emphasizing attention to detail and constant improvement.
In conclusion, Nestor Lorenzo’s success as Colombia’s national team manager is a result of his ability to connect with players emotionally, make bold decisions, and adapt his tactics to maximize the team’s potential. His humble and grounded approach, along with his commitment to the Colombian people, has endeared him to fans and earned their support.