Néstor Lorenzo, Colombia's coach, begins his second cycle after renewing his contract on July 23. The Colombian Football Federation (FCF) seeks to refresh the squad with younger players, but the Argentine resists changes to his core lineup. Sports commentator Carlos Antonio Vélez criticized the potential repeat of James Rodríguez in the call-up, who is without a club and out of form. The Cucutaño, who trained individually in Madrid, was highlighted as a priority for friendlies against Mexico, Paraguay, and Peru. Vélez demanded that Lorenzo prioritize new talents, accusing the FCF of turning the national team into a business. 'It seems like this is a business and comes first over sports,' he stated. The promoters' demand to include Rodríguez generated controversy, as the player hasn't played in European leagues since 2023. Vélez questioned the lack of decency in the selection and called for prioritizing football over commercial interests. James's future remains uncertain after failed negotiations with América de México and Huracán de Argentina. Although there were contacts, no agreement was reached, leaving the forward without a club and without clear prospects in the Liga MX or Argentine Primera División.