LIGA MX
Sánchez critical of Cruz Azul as Ferretti to be named head coach
Hugo Sánchez has hit out at Cruz Azul after he found out in the media that Ricardo Ferretti is to be appointed ahead of him.
Hugo Sánchez has criticised Cruz Azul’s lack of “class” and “style” after finding out via the media that he had been beaten to the head coach’s job at the Liga MX club.
Ferretti to succeed Gutiérrez at Cruz Azul
Mexico legend Sánchez was among the candidates who held talks with Cruz Azul, but Ricardo ‘Tuca’ Ferretti is poised to replaced the sacked Raúl ‘Potro’ Gutiérrez.
Ferretti, who has previously coached Mexican clubs Chivas Guadalajara, Toluca, Pumas and Tigres, is expected to sign a three-year deal at the Estadio Azteca, with the nine-time Mexican champions set to unveil the 69-year-old Brazilian this week.
“A top club has to act like one”, says “surprised” Sánchez
Speaking to ESPN, Sánchez said: “They called me in to have an interview, to present a project. If you’re a club with class, standing and style, the normal thing to do would be to call me before I hear [Ferretti’s appointment] on the news, and say, ‘Thanks for coming in, thanks for the interview and for giving up your time.’
“I’m surprised by it; a top club has to act like one. I wish Cruz Azul and ‘Tuca’ the best of success.”
The 64-year-old also expressed his surprise at the length of the contract that Ferretti is to be given. “They told me it’d only be two years - my understanding was that was a requirement they’d be sticking to across the board.”
“They’ll have their reasons”
Sánchez concluded: “They’ll have their reasons for choosing [Ferretti]. I imagine his experience, maturity and knowledge have swayed the club more than his recent seasons as a coach.
“We don’t know whether what counted most was on-the-pitch or off-the-pitch considerations. I respect their decision. I only spoke about things on the pitch; I spoke about a top team that has to aim for silverware.”