Barranquilla prepares for a highly anticipated Liga I 2026 season opener this Sunday as Junior faces off against rivals Deportes Tolima at Estadio metropolitano. the match marks a rematch of last season’s liga II final, adding extra intensity to the contest. Head coach Alfredo Arias is optimistic about fielding a bolstered lineup, with several recent acquisitions poised to make their debut for the ‘Tiburones’ (Sharks), pending final registration details.
Junior Barranquilla’s head coach Alfredo Arias is set to have a fully stocked roster for Sunday’s match against Deportes Tolima at the Estadio Metropolitano, kicking off at 6:20 p.m. local time.
The two teams are set to renew their rivalry in the opening match of the Liga I 2026 season, following their recent clash in the Liga II 2025 final. Junior will have several new players available for selection as they begin their campaign.
Central defender Jean Pestaña and defensive midfielder Juan David RÃos have both completed their transfer paperwork and are eligible to play. Both players’ moves from Deportivo Pereira – Pestaña was previously on loan with América – have now been officially approved.
Both players have been registered with the Dimayor league. Forward Luis Fernando Muriel, a key offseason acquisition for the ‘Tiburones’ (Sharks), could also be in line to make his debut.
After formally completing his transfer and being presented to the fans, Muriel is a strong possibility to feature against Tolima. The arrival of the veteran striker is expected to significantly bolster Junior’s attacking options.
Junior is anticipated to receive Muriel’s international transfer certificate (CTI) as early as Friday, which would finalize his registration and allow him to play.
Muriel has been included in Arias’ squad for the match against Tolima and will join Pestaña, RÃos, Jannenson Sarmiento, and Kevin Pérez – the other new faces in the Junior lineup – in training camp.
Cristian Barrios, Junior’s sixth signing of the transfer window, is currently undergoing medical examinations. Once cleared, he will be available for selection by the Uruguayan coach.
The club is also working to register Barrios in time for the match against Vinotinto y Oro.
