Coach Néstor Lorenzo, new head of Colombia's national team, dropped James Rodríguez for upcoming friendlies against Mexico, Peru, and Paraguay. A promotional poster showed his absence, according to Carlos Antonio Vélez. The matches will take place between September 21 and October 6, 2026. Lorenzo's decision, after his renewal with the Colombian Football Federation, generated anticipation due to Rodríguez's lack of rhythm in the World Cup. Vélez highlighted the change in the promotional poster for the Peru match, where Rodríguez was replaced by Gustavo Puerta. The Colombian Football Federation confirmed the friendly matches in the U.S., including the clash against Mexico on September 26 and against Paraguay on October 2.