Pumas manager Guillermo Almada confirmed that new signings Miguel Borja and Alejandro Zendejas will not play against Club de Fútbol Monterrey in the Leagues Cup semifinals. The coach explained both players are still adapting and are not ready for competitive action, according to a report by Record MX published this Wednesday.
The news comes as Rayados looks to bounce back from a 1-3 defeat to Atlético San Luis on August 31. That loss is part of a recent run of two consecutive defeats, though the team holds a positive record of three wins in its last five matches. In the Liga MX overall standings, Club de Fútbol Monterrey sits in ninth place with 9 points, from 3 wins and 3 losses in 6 games. You can check their current position on our standings page.
Why won't Borja and Zendejas play?
Guillermo Almada detailed the specific reasons for each forward's absence. Miguel Borja, who arrived in Mexico City a few weeks ago, needs more time to adapt physically to the playing style the team demands. "The previous week, when we played here, we decided that Miguel would stay so he could do a physical adaptation to the things we wanted and not carry the physical load we have," the manager said.
In the case of Alejandro Zendejas, the player is recovering from a knee cleaning that kept him out for two and a half months, following his participation in the United States World Cup. Almada was clear in differentiating between medical clearance and optimal sporting condition. "And the same with Zende, who is coming back from injury recovery." he stated. Both traveled with the team to Los Angeles for the match, but their participation will be limited to support from off the field.
What context does Monterrey bring to the match?
Club de Fútbol Monterrey arrives at this Leagues Cup semifinal in a moment of mixed results. Their performance in the domestic league shows a potent offense, with 13 goals scored, but a defense that has conceded 10, for a +3 goal difference. In the title race, the striped team finds itself 7 points behind the leaders, Club America. Their next Liga MX commitment will be a tricky visit to sixth-placed Club Queretaro on September 5. The team's full schedule is available on our fixtures calendar.
What will the players contribute in the future?
Despite not being available for the immediate clash, Almada expressed confidence that both forwards will contribute significantly to the project in the medium term. The coach emphasized that the adaptation process is normal and necessary to integrate them effectively into his tactical scheme. "We are very satisfied with both and they will surely make a very good contribution to our sporting structure," he declared. Their gradual incorporation aims to prevent setbacks and ensure they reach the physical and tactical understanding level the team needs for the final stretch of the tournaments.
What is the next step for Rayados?
After the Leagues Cup match, Club de Fútbol Monterrey's immediate focus will return to Liga MX. The team led by Fernando Ortiz has a key opportunity to get back on track in its visit to Queretaro. A positive result would be vital to close the gap with the playoff spots and regain confidence before the next cup round. The details of the squad facing these challenges can be reviewed in the site's squad section. The match against Queretaro is scheduled for next September 5.
