Liga MX’s ‘Big 3’ in capital coming up small

Who’s afraid of that kitty cat?

It was clear that this would be a rebuilding year for UNAM when team president Rodrigo Ares de Pargo kept the club’s pocket book closed during the summer transfer window. The Pumas were entering the Apertura 2019 with basically the same team that finished 15th in the Clausura.

The big difference was the new coach – Real Madrid legend, Miguel González.

The Spaniard has had limited success so far, but his system has produced one of the league’s stingiest defenses. “Michel” has tinkered with his offensive line-up – angering striker Carlos González with some of his formations – with disappointing results (14 goals in 13 games). González finally started to respond (he has scored in each of the Pumas’ past two games) but the midfield remains a work in progress.

UNAM visits third-place Querétaro on Saturday afternoon knowing time is running out. The Pumas need points but have been a woeful 1-2-3 on the road this season. The Gallos Blancos are 3-1-2 at Estadio Corregidora.

So, just when the Pumas don’t need any distractions, Ares de Pargo announces his resignation this week, a revelation that was quickly followed by reports that federal authorities were investigating him for money laundering. The controversial team president was not well liked, but the scandal will stir up a media frenzy within and without of the locker room.

This all comes as UNAM finds itself 11th in the standings, but only 3 points out of a playoff spot. Coach “Michel” will strive to keep his players focused on the task at hand, especially since the Pumas’ final four games can all be described as winnable.