Cruz Azul line up coaching candidates ahead of the Apertura 2025

Cruz Azul find themselves at at a pivotal moment, just hours away from facing the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Concacaf Champions Cup Final. While securing the title is the immediate concern for La Máquina’s fans, there’s also growing anticipation over who will take the helm as head coach for the upcoming Apertura 2025 season.

According to multiple reports, Vicente Sánchez is not expected to remain in the Cruz Azul coaching post, regardless of the outcome in the Concachampions final. TUDN’s Adrián Esparza has named two frontrunners for the position: Nicolás Larcamón and Guillermo Almada. Both have impressive track records in Mexican soccer, but their current contracts could present challenges for a potential move to La Noria.

Guillermo Almada: Cruz Azul’s dream signing

Uruguayan coach Guillermo Almada, 49, made headlines on May 28 when he unexpectedly stepped down from his role at Los Tuzos of Pachuca—just ahead of the Club World Cup. His departure sparked speculation about his next move.

During his tenure at Pachuca, which began in January 2022, Almada secured key titles, including the Apertura 2022 and the 2023-24 Concacaf Champions League, solidifying his status as one of the club’s most successful managers.

Nicolás Larcamón gaining momentum

Argentine coach Nicolás Larcamón, 40, took the reins at Necaxa in November 2024, stepping in for Eduardo Fentanes. His arrival in Aguascalientes came with a two-year contract, keeping him tied to the club until the end of 2026.

After leading Los Rayos to the Clausura 2025 Liguilla, Larcamón’s name has begun circulating strongly in Cruz Azul discussions. If he were to make the move, he could bring along midfielder José Paradela with him as a marquee signing.

Before joining Necaxa, Larcamón had notable stints in Liga MX with Puebla and León, where he demonstrated his ability to implement dynamic, attack-minded strategies. His recent tenure at Necaxa has been well received, and his current contract signifies a long-term commitment to Los Rayos. However, any potential departure would require negotiations, as his contractual ties remain fresh and firm.

Eduardo Domínguez: The front office’s dark horse

Finally, another name reportedly on Cruz Azul’s radar is Eduardo Domínguez, the current head coach of Estudiantes de La Plata, who is said to have the approval of the club’s leadership. However, the Argentine strategist remains under contract, and in a recent press conference, he reaffirmed his commitment to his current team: “I choose to be at Estudiantes, to stay in this project.”

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