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Jhon Lucumí: Colombia's left-footed central defender set for World Cup campaign

Jhon Lucumí, a rare natural left-footed central defender from Colombia, is set to anchor the team's defence at the World Cup alongside Dávinson Sánchez. Playing for Bologna in Serie A, Lucumí was the second-most used player in Colombia's qualifying campaign and brings technical proficiency and defensive solidity to the team.




Quick Facts
Who
Jhon Lucumí
What
Named to Colombia's World Cup squad
When
Eight years ago (joined Genk)
Where
Valle del Cauca (birthplace)
- Named to Colombia's World Cup squad
- Expected to partner with Dávinson Sánchez in central defence
- Won Coppa Italia with Bologna
- Played in Champions League with Bologna
- Established as key player at Bologna
Jhon Lucumí, a natural left-footed central defender from Valle del Cauca, is expected to form a crucial defensive partnership with Dávinson Sánchez for Colombia at the World Cup. His rare profile as a left-footed centre-back in a position historically dominated by right-footed players gives Colombia a distinctive tactical advantage, allowing him to complement Sánchez's playing style while maintaining defensive solidity against high-level opponents such as Portugal.
Lucumí has earned his place in coach Lorenzo's final squad through consistent performances and significant playing time. He was the second-most used player across Colombia's entire squad during the South American qualifying campaign, demonstrating his importance to the team's defensive organization. His technical abilities extend beyond defending—he is comfortable playing out from the back, reads the pressing lines effectively, and excels in aerial duels, making him a versatile defensive option.
Currently playing for Bologna in Italy's Serie A, Lucumí has become one of the most valued Colombian players in the league. Last year, he made history by winning the Coppa Italia with Bologna, and he has also featured in Champions League competition—a notable achievement for a player from a mid-tier Italian club. His career trajectory began at Deportivo Cali before moving to Belgian side Genk roughly eight years ago. Since joining Bologna in 2022, Lucumí has established himself as a key player and could pursue a transfer to a more competitive European club following the World Cup.
Why This Matters
Lucumí's selection provides Colombia with a distinctive tactical advantage through his rare left-footed profile at centre-back—a position typically dominated by right-footed defenders. His proven consistency in South American qualifying, combined with Serie A experience and Champions League exposure at Bologna, makes him instrumental to Colombia's defensive organization at the World Cup. This underscores how top-tier tournaments increasingly value technical proficiency from defenders who can play out from the back and adapt to modern possession-based football.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2022
WireLucumí joined Bologna FC in Serie A
Jan 1, 2025
WireWon Coppa Italia with Bologna
Jan 1, 2026
WireSelected for Colombia's World Cup squad