In the world of football, few stories shine as brightly as that of Elías Montiel, the talented 20-year-old midfielder from Pachuca who has recently made waves on the international stage. Montiel's name has been buzzing following his impressive performance in the 2024 Intercontinental Cup, where he faced off against the legendary Real Madrid. Although Pachuca lost the match 3-0, Montiel's individual brilliance earned him the prestigious Bronze Ball, a recognition that underscores his potential and skill.
During the award ceremony, Montiel had a memorable encounter with Real Madrid's president, Florentino Pérez. The two shared a moment that the young player will surely cherish for years to come. Pérez, who had previously heard positive feedback about Montiel, expressed his admiration during their brief exchange. "I have spoken with several friends and they have told me that you play well at football; today I have seen it and I am very happy. Keep striving," Pérez told Montiel, words that filled the young player with joy and motivation.
Reflecting on this encounter in an interview with TUDN, Montiel recounted, "I just thanked him and told him that I would keep working hard. I remember those moments because they mean so much both in sports and personally." This interaction not only highlights Montiel's growing reputation but also positions him as a player to watch in the coming years.
Montiel has been a key figure in Pachuca's lineup under coach Guillermo Almada, demonstrating maturity and tactical awareness that belies his age. His contributions have not gone unnoticed, leading to his selection for the Mexican National Team earlier this year. As Pachuca gears up for a pivotal match against Rayados de Monterrey, Montiel's performance will be crucial in their quest for a spot in the Liguilla of the Clausura 2025.
Pachuca is known for nurturing talents who make significant impacts in European football, with notable alumni including Héctor Herrera, 'Chucky' Lozano, and Erick Gutiérrez. Montiel appears to be the next in line, and with Florentino Pérez keeping an eye on his progress, the future looks bright for the young midfielder.
As the football world continues to watch Montiel's career unfold, the upcoming match against Monterrey will serve as an important test. The stakes are high, and Montiel's ability to perform under pressure will be crucial for his team as they aim to secure a place in the playoffs.
Looking ahead, Montiel is set to face Real Madrid once again on June 22, 2025, during the group stage of the Club World Cup in the United States. This match will not only provide another opportunity for Montiel to showcase his talents but also a chance to impress Pérez once more, potentially solidifying his status as a rising star in the footballing world.
As April 2025 draws to a close, Elías Montiel's journey is just beginning. With the support of his club and the recognition from one of the sport's most influential figures, he is poised to make a significant impact both in Mexico and on the international stage. This is a story worth following, as Montiel continues to carve out his legacy in the beautiful game.
