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Catching up with Liga MX during the FIFA break

By Thomas Buckley

Pachuca and Cruz Azul were two of the big winners during the summer transfer window. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
Pachuca and Cruz Azul were two of the big winners during the summer transfer window. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images) /
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Liga MX FIFA break
Orbelín Pineda (left) and Ignacio Rivero were key cogs for “La Máquina” last season, and both are back as Cruz Azul looks to repeat as Liga MX champions. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images) /

Holders Cruz Azul runs it back with same line-up

After a dominating Guardianes 2021 campaign that featured a Liga MX record-tying 10 consecutive wins, the Cementeros front office was determined to keep its title-winning roster in place.

And that’s basically what they did as management worked almost the entire summer to keep the ol’ gang together, shedding just two subs – veteran winger Elías Hernández (sold to León) and unproven youngster Misael Domínguez (sold to Tijuana) – and bringing in two people.

The most difficult task was retaining jack-of-all-trades Ignacio Rivero who was on loan with “La Máquina” last season. Despite a bidding war provoked by the Tigres, Tijuana finally accepted Cruz Azul’s offer for the handyman.

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Rivero’s versatility provided coach Juan Reynoso with great freedom to mix-and-match line-ups and keep key players fresh heading into the Liga MX playoffs, as Rivero got 10 starts in the regular season, while starting 5 of 6 playoff games.

All-Stars Luis Romo and Orbelín Pineda remained in the Cementeros camp, too, even though European clubs have been sniffing around the pair (and Pineda appears poised to leave in December). Star striker Jonathan Rodríguez also made it clear that he is comfortable in La Noria, telling the front office to reject offers from abroad.

After lengthy consideration given to letting Pablo Aguilar walk, management agreed to a one-year deal and the Paraguayan hardman is once again anchoring the defense.

Finally, journeyman Luis “Quick” Mendoza was signed to fill Elías Hernández’s spot though foot surgery will keep him in drydock for two months. And 28-year-old Venezuelan playmaker Rómulo Otero was acquired as cover for the departure of Pineda, though he has failed to impress in either of his two appearances.

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