Colombia will close the group stage America Cup in view of Brazil on July 2 in California. It will be James’ reunion with Dorival, the coach who received him in Sao Paulo.
The experience of the captain of the National Team in Brazilian football had many turbulences in his first year. Complaints about his position as a starter, changes in coach and deep slumps in the team affected the stability of his return to South America.
James chose Sao Paulo after leaving Europe. He joined at the end of July with three months of inactivity. He was received with warmth and great expectation from the fans. Dorival was more cautiousHe prepared a special training plan, without rushing his debut.
“He was helpful and very professional. James is a person with a unique and differentiated background“He understood the moment of the team, he realized that the team was in a process of success, it was growing and that I could not be disloyal to whoever was acting at that time,” he explained in October of last year.
With that coach, the Colombian came close to one of his best versions. Positioned as a midfielder with freedom to go to the sides, he played 12 games for Brasileirao and two more for Conmebol Sudamericana. He scored a goal. Enough to become the captain of the National Team in the last Qualifiers.
In good physical condition, he stood out for his technique. The DT’s idea was fulfilled.
“He was patient. I wasn’t quite in shape“He was in the process of adapting to the club, the city and his teammates. It’s natural that maybe it was a condition that he didn’t expect at that time. However, he was very important and understanding, he waited his turn,” he added.
At the beginning of the year, Dorival left the club to manage the Brazilian senior team. In the middle of the preseason he was replaced by Thiago Carpini, with whom he had some conflicts. He asked for more minutes, watched his hasty exit. However, he overcame the differences and returned to the starting lineup for Conmebol Libertadores. He played six matches for São Paulo, Brasileirao and the continental tournament.
The bad results came out in April. Luis Zubeldía arrived and lost his place among the first basemen.
“I use who I think I have to use and I put who I think I have to put“Nothing personal with any player. We are thinking about São Paulo’s matches one by one. And based on what I see, I make the decision that I consider best for the team, nothing more,” said the Argentine coach.
Its continuity is on hold. He has 11 more months on his contract. After the Copa América his situation will be defined…
