Monterrey manager Fernando Ortiz confirms signing of Mexico defender Gerardo Arteaga

Speculation surrounding the future of Mexico defender Gerardo Arteaga now looks to be over following comments made by Monterrey head coach Fernando Ortiz. The left-back had been heavily linked with a move back to his homeland and it appears he will be lining up for Rayados in the Liga MX Clausura 2024 tournament.

Arteaga deal “done” by Rayados

Speaking after his team’s 2-0 win away to Santos Laguna, Ortiz was asked about how his roster was shaping up. “Today, I can say I’m happy with the squad I have. It’s a squad that’s already complete with a new addition that, if you don’t know, I’ll tell you now. (Gerardo) Arteaga, I think the deal is practically done. Actually, it would be more correct to say it is done. I’m really happy with the board, they’ve done an exceptional job. Today, I’ve got two jobs to do in many ways and I’m happy with the improvement we’ve made.”

Arteaga will join Monterrey from Belgian club Genk, for whom he scored five goals and created another 12 in 126 matches. The defender started his professional career in Mexico with Santos Laguna, making his professional debut in October 2016 before moving to Europe in July 2020.

Monterrey secure second Liga MX win over Santos Laguna

With regard to the game itself, Ortiz revealed his delight at this players showing exactly what they were made of away to Santos, who visiting teams often struggling to play against at Estadio Corona.

“I think the boys understood exactly when we needed to strike. As soon as we did that, we hurt them and stopped them in their tracks. Although we scored the first goal early on, the second came when they were on top. The spaces that we thought would open up did open up and led to our goals. That’s something the boys understood perfectly and I think that’s why it happened.”

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