[Gotham Dark Knight]

Carlos Valderrama

Although Carlos Valderrama is known by many for his distinctive mop of blond hair, a trademark he still retains today, for genuine football lovers the mere mention of the man they call El Pibe (The Kid) brings magical memories of a gifted midfield schemer. Here was a footballer who played the game at walking pace but still seemed to cover every blade of grass, a lethal playmaker who championed the art of the creative midfielder, widely considered to be a dying breed.

Today, at the age of 45, Valderrama continues to enjoy a close relationship with the sport he graced with such artistry. He now runs an academy in the Colombian city of Barranquilla, which, as he tells FIFAworldcup.com is a source of immense satisfaction to him. Until very recently he was also one of the faces of Major League Soccer in the United States, giving MLS clinics at training camps all over the country. Aside from his business interests, Valderrama is also patiently waiting for the opportunity to fulfil his dream of taking charge of the Colombia national team. He is not unduly concerned about his lack of coaching experience. "Although I've never managed a team, I am a coach. If you really want to achieve major things as a coach, it's only natural you should want to manage your country. I don't want to upset anyone, but if they offered me the job I'd take it," says Valderrama.