Campaz's Journey from Grêmio Disappointment to World Cup Player for Colombia

Colombian midfielder Jaminton Campaz has completed a remarkable turnaround from struggling at Grêmio to earning a World Cup spot with Colombia. The 26-year-old, selected by coach Néstor Lorenzo for the tournament starting Wednesday, represents a dramatic recovery after an underwhelming spell in Brazil.

Campaz arrived at Grêmio in August 2021 as the club's most expensive signing ever at R$ 21 million, coming from Colombian side Tolima with high expectations. However, his tenure proved disappointing. In 2021, he made 18 appearances (1,021 minutes) and scored just two goals as Grêmio struggled against relegation to Brazil's second division. The club was eventually relegated that year. In 2022, Campaz contributed more substantially during Grêmio's successful return to the top flight, with 40 appearances, five goals, and four assists across 2,382 minutes, though he remained largely on the periphery of the project.

A fresh start in Argentina transformed Campaz's career. Loaned to Rosario Central in early 2023, he excelled immediately, recording 43 appearances, 10 goals, and eight assists in his first season while helping the club win the Copa de la Liga Argentina. His performances convinced Rosario Central to make the move permanent in January 2024. Last year, he formed an effective partnership with veteran Ángel Di María as the club won the Argentine Championship, with journalist Juan Pablo Méndez crediting his speed, precision, and strong chemistry with teammates for his success under coach Miguel Ángel Russo.

These stellar performances at Rosario Central earned Campaz renewed opportunities with Colombia. Though he had been in the Copa América 2021 squad under Reinaldo Rueda, he remained unused. Under current coach Néstor Lorenzo, Campaz has become a key option, scoring in a March friendly against France to confirm his World Cup selection on May 25. Colombia begins its campaign Wednesday at 23:00 (Brasília time) against Uzbekistan at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca in Group K, with matches to follow against Congo on June 23 and Portugal on June 27. Campaz is expected to feature among the substitutes.