The buzz around Jhon Duran isn’t solely about his performances; instead, it’s a swirling rumor that has gripped the Colombian squad. Reports indicated a confrontation involving Duran, head coach Nestor Lorenzo, James Rodriguez, and Jefferson Lerma following Colombia‘s goalless draw against Peru.
It all started when journalist Paolo Arenas claimed, “Duran stormed into the locker room, shouting and gesturing at teammates. Lorenzo tried to calm things, but Duran grabbed his shirt. James hit the floor, while Lerma managed to restrain Duran.” The report sent shockwaves through the team, prompting responses from those involved.
Lorenzo dismissed those claims, saying, “I can’t believe there’s so much ill will to invent such non-existent things. Duran left at halftime due to back pain; that’s all.” Duran himself urged, “The journalist who imagined this should speak up and clear it, as it’s not fair to accuse us over his imagination. It’s not the truth.”
James Rodriguez and Jefferson Lerma echoed this sentiment. While James stated, “It’s false, completely false,” Lerma added, “I found out through my agent who sent me the news. Nothing happened.”
Jhon Duran (left) and James Rodriguez looking down while playing for Colombia.
Jhon Duran breaks silence on rumors of conflict at the Colombian NT
Despite the Colombian Soccer Federation attributing Duran’s departure to back issues, speculation persisted about a potential rift. Duran addressed the media to set the record straight, claiming the reason he left the Colombian national team camp “It’s purely physical.
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“I’m happy and have no issues with any teammates, especially not with the coach or ‘the old men,’ which is how I call James and Lerma in a friendly tone. They’re like family. Spreading such rumors only disrupts the team.“
The first match that Jhon Duran will miss after leaving Colombia camp
Duran will miss Colombia‘s next match against Argentina on Tuesday, June 10 in Buenos Aires during Matchday 16 of the South American 2026 World Cup Qualifiers due to his departure from the squad amid these controversies.
It’s a game that could have serious implications for Los Cafeteros, who sit sixth in the standings and are just three points clear of Venezuela, who are currently in the intercontinental playoff spot.
It’s been a rough patch for Lorenzo’s squad, who went winless in its last five games. Colombia’s last win came in October 2024, when they thrashed Chile 4-0. After three consecutive losses, the team had to settle with back-to-back draws in its last two appearances. Now, Colombia face a challenging task against the reigning world champions. Without Duran, they’ll rely on James to try and pull off a shock in Argentina.
