Cruz Azul is experiencing significant changes on and off the field as Vicente Sánchez takes the helm following the departure of former head coach Martín Anselmi. With this coaching transition, the team has seen not only tactical shifts but also alterations in player roles throughout the Liga MX Clausura 2025 season, raising questions among supporters and analysts alike.
Since Sánchez's appointment, Cruz Azul's performance has been commendable, achieving 7 wins, 1 draw, and just 1 loss across his first 9 matches. This impressive form, which boasts a win percentage of 77.8%, stands out compared to Anselmi's previous record of 62.6% over 50 matches. Yet, the success has not come without controversy, as several players integral to Anselmi's strategy now find themselves marginalized.
Notably, midfielder Lorenzo Faravelli, who was among Anselmi's top performers, is now facing a decline in playing time. Under Anselmi, Faravelli was heavily featured, becoming one of the team’s most-utilized players. This season, he has only managed to play 377 out of 630 available minutes, raising eyebrows about Sánchez's tactical preferences.
Similarly, Alexis Gutiérrez, who enjoyed becoming a regular National Team call-up under Anselmi with 2,449 total minutes played, has been reduced to just 169 minutes this season. This suggests Sánchez may prioritize players with different qualities, possibly favoring physicality or dynamic transitions over Gutiérrez's attacking style.
Angel Sepúlveda has also experienced diminished returns, dropping to just 127 minutes played and starting only once. His limited time on the field reflects Sánchez's altered attacking strategy, possibly indicating experimentation with different forward profiles. Meanwhile, Amaury Morales, who showed promise earlier this season, has seen his role shrink, appearing only once as a starter under Sánchez.
Significantly, Andrés Montaño—a strategic acquisition made at Anselmi’s recommendation—barely features under Sánchez, with only 17 minutes played, indicating perhaps contrasting visions for the squad's structure.
One might ask: what prompted these changes? Sanchez's tactical approach stands out for its stark differences from Anselmi's possession-based play. The current regime has adopted what can be described as pragmatic and reactive strategies, focusing on creating defensive stability as opposed to high-pressing, possession-centric tactics. This new style has led to victories; Cruz Azul’s defensive record has improved, allowing only 9 goals across 9 matches as they prepare to face tougher opponents like Monterrey and Santos Laguna.
Looking at their current standing, Cruz Azul has climbed to 4th place following their win against Querétaro. With upcoming fixtures, including matches against Monterrey on March 2, Santos Laguna on March 9, and Toluca on March 16, fans are eager to see if the team's strategies can withstand the pressure of more formidable rivals.
Amidst the on-pitch changes, fan expectations have also shifted. While some supporters applaud the results, others lament the loss of the team’s previously dynamic attacking style. The significant reductions in playing time for fan-favorites like Gutiérrez and Sepúlveda have led to discussions about whether this tactical overhaul is sustainable or merely luck-driven.
Looking forward, the challenges for Sánchez are multifaceted: finding balance between attack and defense will be key, especially against clubs known for their offensive capabilities. The question also lingers about how he will reintegrate sidelined players who once played pivotal roles.
Cruz Azul's consistent performance remains under close scrutiny. The coming weeks will be defining; not just for the potential results of these matches but also for the morale and dynamics of the team heading forward. Maintaining their current form may bolster Sánchez's standing, but import on how he manages players and expectations will undoubtedly shape the long-term future of the squad.
Fans and analysts alike are left asking: can this new tactical identity lead Cruz Azul to glory, or will it displace the very talents which once made them formidable?