Liga MX Super Clásico shines light on Copa GNP
It’s Tena’s job to maximize youthful club’s potential
Guadalajara appeared certain to end its Liga MX playoff drought last season, perched in fifth place when the season was canceled after Matchday 10. This was not unexpected after GM Ricardo Peláez flashed an open wallet during the winter transfer window.
In came three El Tri prodigies, including the aforementioned Macías, a skilled 21-year-old striker who thrived while out on loan to León in 2019.
J.J. returned to the Chivas with the notion of showcasing his skills for a European suitor. The pandemic put that on hold, but bids could be forthcoming in August so Tena might not have him for long.
The other Team Mexico stars are winger Uriel Antuna and left back Cristian Calderón. Antuna jumped to Liga MX from MLS where he played for LA Galaxy, while Calderón arrived after a breakout year with Necaxa. Antuna looked great during El Tri’s Gold Cup-winning run in summer 2019 while “Chicote” became a regular starter during Mexico’s Nations League matches in October and November last.
Another star-in-the-making also joined from Necaxa – 23-year-old Jesús Angulo. The playmaking midfielder struggled in his first season with the Chivas and did not crack the starting 11. But the Cup has been a different story.
Angulo has been effective in his forward role, scoring twice and serving up an assist to Macías to account for 3 of Guadalajara’s 5 goals during the group stage.
Tena will also count on in-house talent with “Chofis” López stepping into the No. 10 spot, the hustling Fernando Beltrán scurrying all around the pitch, Gilberto Sepúlveda (only 21) proving to be a stud on defense, and Antonio Rodríguez standing tall between the pipes.
Veterans Jesús Molina and Isaac Brizuela are solid in midfield, but Tena will want to see more production from Alexis Vega and Ronaldo Cisneros up front.
Guadalajara promises to be an entertaining club to watch in the Guardianes 2020 and fans have every right to expect a top four finish.