What’s Maxi Meza’s verdict on ‘Tecatito’ Corona’s arrival at Monterrey?

Monterrey’s Maxi Meza has welcomed the arrival of Jesús Manuel ‘Tecatito’ Corona, who has re-signed for the Liga MX club 10 years after leaving for European soccer.

Rayados confirmed last week that Mexico forward Corona, 30, has joined from LaLiga side Sevilla.

“I already knew a bit about him, about the man and the player he is, so we’re very happy that he has signed for us and will be able to bring all his abilities to the team,” Meza said.

Corona competition a positive, Meza says

Although Meza and Corona will be batting it out with each other for game time on the Monterrey wing, the Argentina international said he isn’t concerned by the new threat to his place in Fernando Ortiz’s side.

“Of course [there’ll be competition],” he said. “From a personal point of view, ever since Dorlan [Pabón] left the club, I’d lost a little bit of that competition that I had previously had on the right flank.

“So it’s a good thing that these types of players come to the club and give you the chance to learn from them and improve day in, day out. That’s what helps to keep you on your toes.”

Meza, who has been at Monterrey since 2019, added: “I think the competition for places that we’re going to have across the squad is going to be a good thing for everyone.

“Hopefully we can achieve the goals we’ve set ourselves for the rest of the year.

Rayados on fringes of direct playoff spots

Monterrey, who are five-time Mexican champions, sit eighth in the Liga MX’s Apertura 2023 regular-season standings, one point off the automatic playoff qualification spots.

Rayados are next in league action on Saturday 16 September, when they host Club León at the Estadio BBVA.