Colombian National Team: Potential Successors to José Pekerman
Undoubtedly, José Néstor Pekerman has brought many joys to the country, especially with the qualification to a World Cup after 16 years of absence and their subsequent historic participation in Brazil 2014.
Because of this, many would like the Argentinian to stay in charge of the Tricolor for many more years, but his contract expires after Russia 2018 and it is very complicated for the relationship to be renewed due to the high costs involved and the fact that the bond has been wearing thin with the fans over time. Additionally, the national team needs a fresh start for the future.
Thinking ahead to the next cycle for Qatar 2022, these are the main candidates to take up the reins from the Argentinian:
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REINALDO RUEDA
The first candidate is a familiar face. The coach from Valle del Cauca made history with Atlético Nacional, winning almost every title, including the Copa Libertadores. He currently manages Flamengo in Brazil and, although he hasn't been as successful as with the Paisa club, the local press has highlighted his ability to turn around the struggling Brazilian team.
Another advantage Rueda has is his familiarity with the Colombian national team, and he already has two World Cups under his belt. His professional and personal record is impeccable.
JUAN CARLOS OSORIO
One step below is another Colombian who made history with Atlético Nacional. The Risaralda native is a studious and innovative coach who is not afraid to take risks in order to achieve his goals. His career has been growing for several years now.
In Colombia, he won everything with Nacional and now he has experience coaching national teams, including the challenging task of leading the Mexican team, with which he is making history despite the harsh criticisms.
RICARDO GARECA
Another candidate to lead the national team, although with less probability, would be the current coach of Peru. Gareca achieved something similar to what Pekerman did with Colombia, starting with a change in mentality and then developing a soccer identity.
The Argentinian has firsthand knowledge of Colombian soccer, having played and coached América de Cali, and he was one of the candidates to replace José before he renewed his contract after the successful World Cup in Brazil.
Who do you think is up to the task of taking over from Pekerman when his cycle with the national team ends?