Liga MX: 10 Players to Watch
With the Clausura 2018 kicking off this weekend, I decided to give to take a quick look at 10 Mexican players that you should be following if Liga MX interests you in any way, shape or form.
Cesar Montes, CF Monterrey, CB:
Considered by many as the true heir to Rafael Márquez’s throne, it’s easy to see why. He’s an excellent tackler and maintains his composure well against some the stronger attacking side in the league. Cesar also has good vision, playing out of the back & spraying passes forward just like the man he’s been compared to.
Jonathan González, CF Monterrey, DM:
Look, I know that he’s American born but considering that he’s being considered for an El Tri call up later this month, he’s going on this list.
Jonathan had a stellar Apertura 2017, becoming a force in the midfield for Rayados as they finished at the top of the table, went to a final & also won a Copa MX to close out the year. The kid has an engine, constantly running and winning balls to start Monterrey’s ridiculous counter attacks. He made his way into a Liga MX team of the season in 2017 and should improve going into the new year.
Victor Guzmán, CF Pachuca, CM:
The 22 yr old had a breakout season in the Apertura 2017, notching 12 goals in all competitions, including game winner at the Club World Cup versus Wydad AC in the second round. It’ll be interesting to see how he develops as the World Cup approaches and he makes an attempt to catch the attention of Juan Carlos Osorio to earn a place on his squad for Russia.
Erick Gutierrez, CF Pachuca, CM:
Midfield partner of the above mentioned Guzman, Guti is more of a typical central mid, choosing to impact matches with his vision and long passes. The fact that he’s been Pachuca’s captain since the age of 20 speaks a lot to his leadership and character. Rumored to be off to Europe this summer due to interest from PSV and Celta Vigo, similar to age-mate Hirving Lozano, it’s best to enjoy him in Liga MX while you still can.
Rodolfo Pizarro, CD Guadalajara, CAM/LW:
As one of the few bright spots in Chivas’ abysmal Apertura 2017, if there’s one thing to know about Pizarro is that he only scores golazos. Quite the dynamic player, the former Pachuca product is maturing well in the 10 role, dribbling his way out of tough situations and setting up his teammates well.
Gael Sandoval, CD Guadalajara, LW:
As is usually the case following a quality season, Sandoval has made the move from Santos Laguna to Guadalajara to replace Carlos Fierro as the latter was shipped off to Cruz Azul. At the age of 22, Gael could possibly the best left winger in the league. Known as a playermaker, he was an assist machine last year, racking up 9 assists. It’ll be interesting to see how he plays in a stronger side.
Diego Lainez, Club América, LW:
The youngest player on this list at 17 yrs old, Lainez may have the highest potential of all. Originally breaking into the first team at América under the guidance of Ricardo La Volpe, he’s had a slightly tougher time getting minutes under Miguel Herrera. Thankfully, Diego should be more involved this season. A quick & skillful dribbler, he made a name for himself at the u17 World Cup in India this past fall, netting twice against eventual champion England.
Edson Alvarez, Club América, CB/CDM:
Another La Volpe discovery, Edson quickly established himself in the first team and watched his role grow with the national team as well. Playing as either a centerback or defensive midfielder, he can win you the ball on the ground or in the air.
Bryan Garnica, Club Atlas, RW:
Considered by Atlas fans to be their best player last season, he should be one to watch this year despite Atlas’ struggles to move the ball forward against some of the bigger clubs. He’s already scored his first goal on the opening night of the Clausura 2018.
Eduardo Tercero, Lobos BUAP, CB:
Probably the least known name on this list given that he plays for a club that just gained promotion last year. An impressive defender the few times I did get to watch him, Eduardo averaged 6.21 tackles & interceptions per 90 minutes, which was the highest amongst defenders that played more than 500 minutes last season.
Honorable Mentions: Orbelin Pineda could see a return to form this year after a rough Apertura 2017. Alexis Vega, Roberto De La Rosa, Ronaldo Cisneros are all young strikers that you could keep an eye one should their clubs have an injury crisis.
