Former Cruz Azul head coach gives verdict on possible Liga MX return
There have been rumors that Martín Anselmi could return to Mexican soccer, after a disappointing stint in Portugal.
Martín Anselmi’s first experience of coaching in European soccer didn’t last long, with the Argentine fired by FC Porto in July after an underwhelming, six-month spell at the Estádio do Dragão. Anselmi arrived at the Portuguese club under controversial circumstances, as his departure from Cruz Azul had not yet been finalized.
Now, without a team, the 40-year-old’s name has resurfaced in connection with a potential return to Liga MX.
One of the clubs linked to him shortly after his exit from Porto was Pumas. The team currently finds itself on the brink of elimination but still has a shot at qualifying for the play-in round, where they could compete for one of the final two spots in the playoffs. Despite Efraín Juárez’s struggles at the helm, indications suggest he will remain in charge for now.
What has Anselmi said about Liga MX links?
Sources close to Anselmi’s camp told AS México that there has been no contact with Los Universitarios. In fact, the coach is not considering a return to Liga MX at this time, as his focus remains firmly on Europe. He’s determined to stay and pursue new opportunities on the continent.
A messy Cruz Azul departure
Anselmi had won over Cruz Azul fans after leading the team to two Liga MX semifinal appearances, which opened the door for his move to Europe with Porto. However, his exit was far from smooth. At the time of his departure, Cruz Azul had yet to receive payment for the release clause in his contract. Nevertheless, Anselmi boarded a plane and left Mexico.
The situation took time to resolve. Cruz Azul filed a complaint against the coach for job abandonment, and it wasn’t until weeks later that the club received the payment for his release clause, officially freeing him to begin his European adventure.
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