The relationship between opinion journalism and James Rodriguez has been, over the last decade, a rollercoaster of praise and fierce criticism. However, after the recent defeat of the Colombian national team against Croatia (2-1) in a friendly match prior to the 2026 World Cup, the alarms have not only been raised in Nestor Lorenzo’s coaching staff, but have provoked a new and acid pronouncement from one of the most influential and controversial voices in the country: Ivan Mejia Alvarez.
Mejia’s diagnosis: “Far from ideal condition”
True to his direct and unfiltered style, the experienced sports analyst used his social networks and opinion channels to dissect what he believed was a worrying performance by the Colombian No. 10. For Mejia, James’ problem is not talent — which no one disputes — but rather a physiological and competitive reality that seems to be taking its toll at the most inopportune moment.
“James is far from having an ideal physical condition to play in the World Cup. And time is running out…”, Mejia said on his official X account (formerly Twitter). The journalist stressed that the midfielder showed an alarming lack of rhythm, poor dynamics and an inability to sustain the intensity demanded by elite international football today.
The shadow of Juan Fernando Quintero
One of the most heated points of Mejia’s criticism was the direct comparison with another member of the golden generation: Juan Fernando Quintero. For the journalist, the difference in pace between the two playmakers is now abysmal, suggesting that meritocracy in the national team should prevail over the hierarchy of names.
Mejia argues that while James struggles to find a solid physical foundation after months of irregularity at club level and constant niggles, other players are arriving with superior “match fitness”. This observation calls into question Rodriguez’s undisputed starting role, as he remains the captain and emotional linchpin of the group, but could become a “burden” if he does not reach his physical peak in the next three months.
A friendly that left more than doubts
The defeat against Croatia in Orlando was not just a slip-up on the scoreboard. It was the scenario where the seams of a team that relies too much on the inspiration of James were visible, who, on this occasion, looked slow in transitions and disconnected from the speed proposed by wingers such as Luis Diaz.
Mejia’s criticism is not isolated. It is added to a sector of the press and the fans who question whether the current Minnesota United player (according to recent reports of his link to MLS) will be able to withstand the demands of a short and highly intense tournament such as a World Cup, especially considering the climate and travel in North America.
A wake-up call or a definitive sentence?
For many, Ivan Mejia’s words are a necessary “reality check”. For others, it is yet another attack on a player who has given everything for the national team. However, the crux of the matter is undeniable: James Rodriguez needs quality minutes and specific physical preparation if he is to be Colombia’s playmaker at the World Cup.
Time, as Mejia rightly says, is the worst enemy. With less than 90 days to go before the ball rolls at the World Cup, James is in a race against time. The upcoming friendly against France will be the acid test. It will be seen whether the No.10 can silence his critics with his football or whether, on the contrary, Mejia’s verdict becomes a prophecy about the end of an era.
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