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Jun 17, 20261
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Campaz's Journey from Grêmio Disappointment to World Cup Player for Colombia

Colombian midfielder Jaminton Campaz has transformed from a failed Grêmio signing into a World Cup player for Colombia, earning his spot through strong performances at Argentina's Rosario Central, where he won titles and formed a productive partnership with Ángel Di María.
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Quick Facts
Who
Jaminton Campaz
What
Campaz signed by Grêmio as most expensive purchase in club history
When
August 2021 - joined Grêmio
Where
Brazil - Grêmio
- Campaz signed by Grêmio as most expensive purchase in club history
- Made disappointing 18 appearances in 2021 at Grêmio
- Contributed 40 appearances in 2022 as Grêmio returned to top flight
- Loaned to Rosario Central in early 2023
- Rosario Central exercised permanent purchase option in January 2024
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.
Why This Matters
Campaz's story reflects how European and South American football markets differ in player development and opportunity costs. His failure at a Brazilian giant despite being the club's record signing underscores scouting risks and adaptation challenges, while his redemption at a smaller Argentine club demonstrates the importance of the right environment, coach, and teammates for player success. For Colombia, his inclusion strengthens midfield depth at the World Cup and validates Néstor Lorenzo's selection philosophy of favoring form over pedigree.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2021
WireCampaz made 18 appearances (2 goals) for Grêmio during relegation battle
Jan 1, 2022
WireCampaz appeared 40 times (5 goals, 4 assists) as Grêmio returned to top flight
Jan 1, 2023
WireCampaz recorded 43 appearances, 10 goals, 8 assists at Rosario Central; won Copa de la Liga Argentina
Jan 1, 2024
WireRosario Central won Argentine Championship with Campaz partnering with Ángel Di María
May 25, 2026
WireNéstor Lorenzo announced Colombia's World Cup squad including Campaz
Jun 17, 2026
WireColombia begins World Cup campaign against Uzbekistan at Estadio Azteca
Jun 23, 2026
WireColombia plays Congo in World Cup Group K
Jun 27, 2026
WireColombia plays Portugal to close World Cup group stage