Rumor: Colombian Media Says Deportivo Cali May Give Faryd Mondragon Chance At "Sweet Retirement," President Is Open To It

If Colombian media is to be believed, Faryd Mondragon is set to made a dramatic return to the country to end his career.

Golcarcol is reporting that Deportivo Cali has begun discussions to bring Mondragon back to the team. Deportivo is the team with which Mondragon began his career, which now spans over two decades, during the 1990-91 season.

The Colombian news outlet has a confirmation from Cali's president, Oscar Astudillo, that the team is pondering a transfer of some sort for Mondragon.

"[We're] not thinking of hiring a player in that position," Astudillo said, "but we will study this possibility with the coaching staff and if this is approved we will try to have the player."

The former Colombian national team goalkeeper has also apparently stated openness to returning to Cali. Mondragon was quoted on a radio show as stating that he would be open to moving to Cali if asked.

"I have a great relationship with the board," Mondragon told La Banda Deportivo.

However, Mondragon stated repeatedly that it was up to the Cali front office to determine whether or not it wanted to make the move happen. The 40-year-old said that it would require Cali to bring him back to Colombia prior to their season, not during the season.

"The economic issue is not going to be a problem," Mondragon said. "[It would] be nice to retire from the club of which I am supporter."

He also stated that he doesn't want to play with the feelings of the supporters from Cali, nor those from Philadelphia.

Mondragon did play down the possibility of playing in Colombia again, based upon the level of play in his home country.

I feel very good here, but when it comes to quality and selection depth Colombia ... there is nothing."

As of right now, Mondragon has yet to discuss a move back to Cali with his wife or family, but only because there is no official offer on the table, yet.

Any move to Cali would be contradictory of a public statement Mondragon made over Twitter last July, which indicated that he was hoping to retire in Philadelphia.

"The Chairman and the Coach told me they want me to extend 1 more year my contract here and I love the idea to stay and live here," said Mondragon.

(All translations by Brown Lugo, @Philly_brown10, for use by the Brotherly Game)