Cruz Azul will seek to fight for a new international title in this Leagues Cup 2023. The LIGA MX side is going through several changes and a trophy might allow them to see that they’re heading in the right direction.
The Mexican club will be part of Group South 3 and must get by Inter Miami FC and Atlanta United FC for a spot in the knockout stage, which won’t be an easy task. Inter Miami FC could see a boost from Lionel Messi’s arrival and The Five Stripes are currently in a playoff spot.
Cruz Azul, led by Ricardo Ferretti, had a forgetful Clausura 2023 tournament, as they were eliminated in the play-in round at the hands of Atlas FC. The 2023 Apertura season hasn’t improved, as Cruz Azul has two losses to start this new campaign.
Cruz Azul’s form heading into Leagues Cup 2023
Cruz Azul is going through several changes heading into Leagues Cup. This summer was Ferretti’s first transfer window to begin molding the squad into how he wants to see them play. However, with the squad having a lot of changes, it will take time for the pieces to gel
The Mexico City-based club likely wants to use Leagues Cup to not only add silverware to their trophy cabinet but build positive momentum once the Apertura season restarts.
Carlos Salcedo: The backbone of Cruz Azul’s defense
The emblematic 29-year-old defender became a new reinforcement of Cruz Azul to strengthen the team in June 2023. He arrived from FC Juárez and now hopes to be the backbone of the club’s defense.
Salcedo won two cup titles with Chivas de Guadalajara, a German Cup with Eintracht Frankfurt, a LIGA MX and Concacaf Champions League with Tigres UANL. Now, he will try to add this Leagues Cup to his trophy case with Cruz Azul.
Erik Lira: The young engine for La Máquina
The 23-year-old midfielder from Pumas’ youth academy arrived at Cruz Azul in January 2022, signing a contract until 2025. Erika Lira has become the of La Máquina’s midfield and with the development of young Mexican players being a hot topic, many hope he takes another step in his growth this season.
Additionally, Lira’s good performances have put him on the radar of European teams like ACF Fiorentina and Sevilla FC. This Leagues Cup will be an excellent opportunity to continue showing that he can play at a high level internationally.
