Junior de Barranquilla ends contract with Uruguayan manager Sebastián Viera

Junior de Barranquilla officially announced on Saturday, November 14, 2026, that the club has ended its contractual relationship with head coach Sebastián Viera and his coaching staff. The announcement was made at 10:00 a. m., according to Semana. The decision follows the conclusion of the 2026-II season, during which the club failed to qualify for the semi-final quadrangulars.

Performance and tenure

Sebastián Viera assumed the role of head coach at Junior de Barranquilla on September 1, 2026. He took over the position from Alfredo Arias, who had recently achieved back-to-back championships with the club. During his tenure, the performance of the team was marked by a difficult start in which the club held only two points in the standings.

There are conflicting reports regarding the exact number of matches directed by Sebastián Viera. Some reports indicate he managed 14 matches with five wins, five draws, and four losses, resulting in 20 points out of 42 possible. Other reports state he directed 15 matches with six wins, five draws, and four losses, totaling 23 points out of 42 possible. Regardless of the specific totals, different outlets reported a performance percentage of 47.6%.

A club legend

Sebastián Viera holds a significant place in the history of Junior de Barranquilla. Before his time as a manager, he was a goalkeeper and is considered a historical idol for the club. During his career as a player for Junior de Barranquilla, Sebastián Viera played 638 matches and won seven titles.

In an official statement, Junior de Barranquilla thanked Sebastián Viera and his staff for their commitment and dedication to the organization. While the coaching staff intended to continue working for the 2027 season, Mario Viera, an assistant to the coach, stated that the final decision rests with the board, according to El Espectador.

Looking ahead to 2027

The club has not yet announced a replacement for the head coach position. However, Semana noted that Bava has been mentioned as a potential replacement coach for Junior de Barranquilla.

Despite the coaching change, the club remains active on the continental stage. Junior de Barranquilla will compete in the Copa Libertadores during the 2027 season, according to El Espectador.

Glossary

• Junior de Barranquilla — Junior de Barranquilla is a football team. The club is owned by Fuad Ricardo Char Abdala and has been presided over by Antonio Char Chaljub on several occasions.