James Rodriguez has spoken out regarding claims that Jhon Duran engaged in a physical altercation with Colombia head coach Nestor Lorenzo. Journalist Paolo Arenas reported on social media that the Al Nassr striker allegedly displayed aggressive behavior towards Lorenzo after Colombia’s scoreless draw against Peru in Barranquilla.
This incident has sent shockwaves through Colombian soccer, with serious implications potentially on the horizon. According to Arenas, Duran entered the locker room, hurling insults and acting aggressively. The situation escalated when Duran reportedly grabbed Lorenzo by the shirt after the manager attempted to defuse the tension.
Arenas also mentioned that James and Jefferson Lerma quickly stepped in. While Rodriguez reportedly ended up on the ground, word on the street is that Lerma managed to calm things down.
Duran, who started for Colombia against Peru but struggled to make an impact, is said to have exhibited signs of frustration that led to this alleged incident. The Al Nassr striker’s behavior, both on and off the field, has been called into question.
James Rodriguez of Colombia celebrates after scoring the team’s second goal during the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024 quarter-final match between Colombia and Panama.
James Rodriguez denies Duran’s alleged aggression toward Lorenzo
In the post-match media zone, James Rodriguez provided his take on the alleged locker room incident involving Duran and Lorenzo. The Colombian midfielder refuted all claims made by journalist Paolo Arenas, despite the support Arenas received from other journalists, including Eduardo Luis and Carlos Antonio Velez.
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After leaving Colombia camp, Jhon Duran addresses rumored altercation with James Rodriguez
“What fight? That’s false. It’s completely false. Everything that’s been said is false. On the contrary, we need to stay together and send positive vibes, because I believe all those things do us no good,” James said.
With the goalless draw and subsequent controversy in the rearview mirror, James is preparing for a crucial matchup against Argentina in Buenos Aires. Colombia face a must-win situation as Venezuela are closing in on a direct qualifying spot, intensifying the pressure. Rodriguez is expected to be in the starting lineup, leading a team that will miss Duran.
