Pumas face fresh internal clash as MLS move tempts José Caicedo

When things seem to be moving in the right direction at Pumas, another internal dispute has surfaced between the front office and the coaching staff. José Caicedo has an offer from Major League Soccer and wants to leave UNAM – a move already approved by head coach Efraín Juárez – but sporting director Antonio Sancho is reluctant to let him go.

The 23-year-old Colombian midfielder is seeking a transfer due to the limited playing time he has received this season. Juárez has already spoken with the player and given the green light for him to depart in the middle of the tournament.

The complication lies with Pumas’ leadership. Club executives, led by Sancho, are unwilling to authorize Caicedo’s exit and have effectively put the move on hold, despite the technical staff’s approval.

The situation adds another chapter to the ongoing internal dynamics at the club. Not long ago, the focus was on the renewal talks involving Keylor Navas, with Juárez advocating for the veteran goalkeeper to remain at Pumas, though the front office appeared less convinced.

MLS interest from Portland Timbers

Caicedo’s offer comes from MLS, and while nothing has been officially confirmed, the team pursuing the midfielder is believed to be the Portland Timbers.

With only two games played so far this season, Portland is already searching for reinforcements, and the proposal for Caicedo is reportedly on the table – leaving the final decision in the hands of the Pumas hierarchy.

Caicedo’s limited minutes in Clausura 2026

In the current Clausura 2026 tournament, Caicedo has logged just 40 minutes of playing time. Those minutes have come across three appearances off the bench, in games against Querétaro, Santos, and Monterrey.