RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct. 6 (Xinhua) -- Colombian Juan Carlos Osorio has left Sao Paulo to coach Mexico's national team, the Brazilian club said on Tuesday.

The 54-year-old will replace Miguel Herrera, who was sacked in July after he allegedly punched a journalist.

Sao Paulo president Carlos Miguel Aidar said Sao Paulo had done all they could to convince Osorio to stay.

"I deeply regret his decision. He was doing a good job," Adiar said in a statement.

Osorio leaves Sao Paulo fifth in Brazil's Serie A standings, having led them to 12 wins, seven draws and nine losses since his arrival in May. He has also taken the club to the semifinals of the Copa do Brasil.

The winner of four league titles in Colombia's top division, Osorio has openly stated his wish to coach at international level.

His first game in charge of Mexico is expected to be their opening 2018 World Cup qualifier against El Salvador at home on November 13.