Efraín Juárez’s Midas touch: Pumas chase Liga MX title amid rapid rise

In October 2024, Efraín Juárez took over as head coach of Colombian club Atlético Nacional, marking the first top-flight managerial opportunity of his career.

In just three months and 21 matches in Colombia’s top division, the Mexican coach delivered immediate success, winning both the Colombian Cup and the domestic league title.

Immediate impact in Colombia

Known as the “Verdolaga,” Atlético Nacional ended a two-year trophy drought under Juárez’s leadership, also securing back-to-back Copa Colombia championships.

Following that double success, Juárez left the Colombian club in January 2025. Just a few months later, he was appointed head coach of Pumas UNAM in Mexico.

New challenge at Pumas

After Gustavo Lema’s departure, Juárez was brought in to stabilize Pumas. Since arriving, he has overseen 41 matches in charge of the Mexico City club.

Across all competitions, Juárez’s record with Pumas stands at 17 wins, 14 draws, and 10 losses.

Playoff push and title chase

Juárez guided Pumas into the Clausura 2026 playoffs as one of the strongest sides in the tournament. They eliminated Club América in the quarterfinals and then knocked out Pachuca in the semifinals.

Pumas will now face Cruz Azul in the final, with Juárez on the verge of winning league titles in two different countries within roughly 18 months of beginning his top-flight coaching career.

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