Hernán Crespo finally leads his first Atlas training session as new era begins

Hernán Crespo was announced as Atlas’ new manager before the start of the 2026 Apertura, but it wasn’t until this Thursday that the Argentine coach finally stepped onto the field to run his first training session. Inside Estadio Jalisco, Crespo officially took charge of the Zorros, with one more practice scheduled for Friday before the team’s debut against Monterrey.

The club had made it clear from the moment Crespo was hired that he wouldn’t debut on the sideline until Matchday 3, giving him time to resolve personal matters before relocating to Mexico. He watched the opener against León from the stands, but Thursday marked his first hands‑on day with the squad.

After training, Crespo joined the team for a trip to Atlas Colomos, the historic facility that served as the club’s home for decades when it belonged to the civil association of more than 120 members. There, fans welcomed the team with the traditional banderazo, a pre‑game celebration ahead of their first home match at Estadio Jalisco.

A return to the club’s roots

Club executive president Gerardo Casanova addressed supporters during the event, emphasizing the significance of reconnecting with Atlas’ history.

“It’s a privilege to return to our roots at Atlas Colomos. Thank you for being here on a magical night. We’re excited — it’s an honor for Grupo Prodi to be part of this story and part of you. We’re here for you and because of you. Thank you for welcoming us and making us part of your family.”

Casanova continued by framing this moment as a fresh chapter for the club: “Atlas is a new era for us — a new chapter, a new dream. That’s why we wanted to return to our roots and rise to the level of this fanbase. We’ve worked hard, signing reinforcements, building a coaching staff, bringing in valuable people who will help this club become everything it deserves. Thanks to your support, we’ll have a full stadium this Saturday.”

He closed with a message of unity: “Only together can we make this project successful. We want to walk alongside you and create a great celebration. We want a season that stays in our memory. We’re off to a good start with two wins on the road, but now we want to win here. This club is built on the warmth and love of its people — together we can build a historic tournament. The only way is staying united.”

Crespo’s first words to the fans

Crespo then addressed the supporters in his official presentation: “I want to thank the directors who trusted us to lead this dream we all share. I’m very happy to join a club with so much history. We’re here to honor that history, to play with courage, with heart, and to dream big. That’s the idea — calmly, because great things aren’t built overnight. This is a big project, one we hope to lead for a long time, achieving important things so we can all be happy together.”

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