Carlos el Pibe Valderrama, ex-player and commentator, stated that Yaser Asprilla should be Colombia's new '10' for the 2030 World Cup. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, on loan from Girona to Galatasaray, was highlighted as a key option after his standout performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. 'Yaser had to be in the 2026 World Cup because he was in the qualifiers,' emphasized Valderrama on Win Sports, adding that the player 'could be the 10 of the national team'.
The ex-player also evaluated other young talents like Juan Manuel Rengifo and Jorge Carrascal, though he noted their lack of minutes in the national team is a hurdle. 'The problem is that in the Colombia national team, he doesn't play,' said Valderrama, stressing the importance of having players who 'contribute in key moments'.
Regarding James Rodríguez, Valderrama admitted his return depends on finding a club where he can be a protagonist. 'He might not make it to the 2030 World Cup,' he acknowledged, though he didn't rule out his participation in the 2028 Copa América. The midfielder, currently without a club, remains a key figure in the debate about the national team's future.
