Colo Colo is navigating a period of significant uncertainty. The future of head coach Fernando Ortiz is in question following a decisive 3-1 defeat against Deportes Limache in the opening match of the Liga de Primera 2026.
Pressure is mounting, and those in charge at Blanco y Negro are reportedly moving quickly to secure new signings to bolster a squad weakened by the departures of Lucas Cepeda and Vicente Pizarro, both key players in 2025.
Fans, increasingly frustrated, are calling for change in the dugout and have turned their attention to a familiar figure: Claudio “Bichi” Borghi. Many hoped for his return to steer the club back on course, but that possibility has been swiftly dismissed.
Claudio Borghi Rules Out Return as Colo Colo Manager
Speaking with LUN, Borghi was unequivocal: “That’s the question everyone asks me as soon as I set foot in the Monumental. We find many fans who see me as if I were still the coach and others as the future technical director of Colo Colo,” he stated.
He then delivered his definitive verdict: “It’s time to say it clearly: I am still an Indian and a fan of the club, but I am already retired as a coach of Colo Colo. I am not the team’s coach and I will not be in the future,” he declared.
Borghi addressed those longing for his return after nearly two decades away from the Monumental sideline: “Everything I did was 20 years ago and it’s good for the fans to accept that, as I have accepted it at my age.”
This firm rejection of a nostalgic return doesn’t alleviate the crisis surrounding Ortiz. A poor result against Everton in the second match of the season could seal his fate. Currently, Gustavo Álvarez, the former coach of Universidad, is emerging as a leading candidate, having become available and already receiving endorsements from some prominent Colo Colo figures.
The situation at Colo Colo is further complicated by recent events involving other figures in Chilean football. Claudio Borghi recently voiced strong criticism of the Chilean league, stating it is “a disgrace.” This sentiment, while not directly related to the managerial situation at Colo Colo, underscores the broader pressures facing the club and the expectations of its fanbase.
Adding to the club’s challenges, Marco Bolados has suffered a serious injury, sidelining him for six months. This loss further depletes the squad and increases the urgency to find reinforcements. Fernando Ortiz also recently addressed the club’s plans for signings in 2026 and the situation surrounding Pablo Pavez, though details of those discussions remain limited.
The departure of Jorge Almirón was anticipated, with Héctor Tapia potentially taking on an interim role while the club searches for a permanent replacement. Borghi cautioned that any new manager will face immediate challenges, including assessing the team’s physical and mental state and identifying necessary additions. He also highlighted the difficulties of making significant changes mid-season, questioning what happens if a new coach fails to deliver quick results.
Borghi also warned about the pitfalls of interim appointments, recalling that Colo Colo’s previous interim period led to an unexpected outcome. He emphasized the crucial upcoming matches against Palestino and Universidad, which will serve as early tests for any new leadership.
Álvarez’s potential arrival is being viewed with interest, particularly in light of the financial considerations involved. Comparisons are being drawn between Ortiz and Álvarez, with economic factors playing a role in the decision-making process. The club is clearly weighing its options carefully as it seeks to navigate this turbulent period and restore stability to one of Chile’s most iconic football clubs.
The six new signings made by Colo Colo, including Álvaro Madrid, represent an attempt to address the squad’s shortcomings. However, the immediate priority remains resolving the managerial situation and ensuring a positive start to the Liga de Primera season. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the direction of Colo Colo and its ambitions for 2026.
