Why is Sergio Canales being criticized in Mexico?

Monterrey’s 3-0 defeat at the hands of Tigres has resulted in criticism directed at midfielder Sergio Canales. The Mexican club splashed out over $10.6m for the Spanish player, who joined from LaLiga side Real Betis. His role in the club’s latest defeat fell short of expectations and he was substituted after the second goal went in. TV images then showed a dejected Canales after the substitution, with the game going against Rayados.

Canales from the spot

The former Betis captain has scored five goals for his new team, four of them from the penalty spot. Criticism came in the form of messages like, “Without penalties, there is no Canales” and “20 million for this lump?”. There is still hope that his form will return, but at Monterrey, expectations will increase again after his showing against Tigres.

Fernando Ortiz, Rayados’ head coach, made his feelings clear when he took him off at 2-0 down. He did the same with former Sevilla man Tecatito Corona, who also failed to convince on the pitch and was also criticized for his performance.

Tigres were more efficient in almost every aspect of the game and another player with history at Betis was able to put the icing on the cake with a goal. Diego Lainez found the back of the net to seal a home win for Tigres.