The Pumas de la UNAM are gearing up for a significant overhaul as they prepare for the Apertura 2025 season following their recent elimination from the Clausura 2025 tournament. The arrival of Efraín Juárez as head coach brought a wave of optimism among fans and club officials alike, but the reality of the team's performance has sparked a necessary reassessment of their roster.
With the end of the current season, Juárez and the management team are embarking on a mission to cleanse the squad and seek reinforcements. This comes on the heels of confirmed departures, including Lisandro Magallán, Michel Rodríguez, Ricardo Galindo, and Alí Ávila, who has been recalled by his parent club, Monterrey, after Pumas terminated his loan. Additionally, the futures of Ulises Rivas, Rogelio Funes Mori, Robert Ergas, and Jorge Ruvalcaba remain uncertain, with the latter even removing references to Pumas from his social media.
"The elimination marks the start of planning for the Apertura 2025 season," said a club spokesperson, highlighting the urgency of the situation. As it stands, Pumas is in dire need of a central defender and a full-back. The current defensive options include Nathan Silva, who plays as a right center-back, Rubén Duarte, who can fill both central and lateral roles, and Pablo Bennevendo, who has experience in both positions as well. Youngster Ángel Azuaje, at just 20 years old, also remains a hopeful option.
In the midfield, the potential departure of José Caicedo looms large. His performances have attracted attention from other clubs, and if a suitable offer comes in, he may leave as well, further complicating Pumas' need for a solid defensive midfielder. The team’s attacking line has also struggled, with only Ignacio Pussetto and Guillermo Martínez stepping up as nominal forwards capable of finding the back of the net. This lack of offensive firepower has put immense pressure on the management to seek out new talent that can deliver goals.
Fortunately for Pumas, their financial situation is relatively healthy, allowing them to consider potential signings from South America and Europe. "We are in a position to make some surprising signings that could significantly bolster our squad," the spokesperson added, hinting at the club's ambition to enhance their competitive edge.
Meanwhile, the situation surrounding Rogelio Funes Mori continues to be a topic of discussion among fans. Many supporters have expressed a desire for the Argentine forward, who is also a naturalized Mexican, to exit the club due to his inconsistent performances. However, Juárez has indicated that he believes Funes Mori can still contribute positively in the upcoming season. The forward himself has expressed a wish to stay and prove his critics wrong.
Despite Juárez's support, the management has placed Funes Mori on the transfer list, which complicates matters. The club is wary of devaluing the player while they explore potential offers, as they aim to recoup some of the investment made in his signing. If no attractive offers materialize during the transfer window, Pumas may have to consider more drastic measures, including the potential termination of his contract. This would free up a roster spot and reduce payroll, although it would also mean taking a financial hit by not receiving a transfer fee.
Funes Mori's status as a player formed in Mexico adds another layer to the situation. This designation allows him to not occupy a foreign player slot, which could influence the club's decision to retain him, at least temporarily, as they seek to bring in foreign reinforcements in other areas.
There has been speculation about possible destinations for Funes Mori, including a return to Argentine football or remaining within Liga MX. However, as of May 10, 2025, there have been no formal offers leading to negotiations for his transfer. The uncertainty surrounding his future continues to be a point of interest for fans and analysts alike.
As the Pumas move forward, the focus will be on not only rebuilding the squad but also on making strategic decisions that will set the foundation for a more successful campaign in the Apertura 2025. With Juárez at the helm, the hope is that he can instill a winning mentality and attract the right players to complement the existing roster.
In conclusion, the Pumas de la UNAM are at a crossroads. With key players departing and others potentially on the way out, the club faces a critical period of transition. The decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the team's fortunes for the upcoming season, as they aim to break a 14-year title drought and restore their place among the elite in Mexican football.
