El Pibe Wants A Local

Add one of my boyhood idols to the long list of people that don't like the idea of a foreigner coaching their national team. These types always come out of the woodwork when names start to be thrown around for who to hire to lead the national team.

After watching them barely make a ripple at France '98, Colombia haven't sniffed a World Cup appearance since. They won the 2001 Copa America, but they had two things going for them: 1) they were the hosts and 2) because of political reasons, Argentina didn't participate. Having Colombian coaches hasn't help matters much these last couple of years.

Because both of my parents are from Colombia, I've always had a soft spot for los Cafeteros. Looking back, September 5, 1993 will be a day I'll never forget. Watching at home with my family, we couldn't believe our eyes as a Valderrama-led team walked into el Monumental in Buenos Aires and roasted Argentina 5-0, consigning los Albicelestes to a play-off with Australia for one of the last tickets to USA '94.

If it means a more competitive side that can vie for continental honors as well as qualify for the World Cup, I'm willing to see the team under the guidance of a foreigner. If you have a different opinion on the matter, let's hear it.

Valderrama says no to a foreign coach [Guardian UK]

-ac