Monterrey Set to Sack Fernando Ortiz: What Went Wrong for Los Rayados?

The official announcement is expected in the coming days.

FC Juarez v Monterrey - Torneo Clausura 2024 Liga MX
FC Juarez v Monterrey - Torneo Clausura 2024 Liga MX | Jam Media/GettyImages

Monterrey's management is reportedly on the verge of parting ways with Fernando Ortiz following the team's disappointing performance in the Leagues Cup. Despite a solid start to the Liga MX season, the Argentine manager's tenure with Los Rayados appears to be nearing an abrupt end.

Leagues Cup Disaster

Ortiz's position became precarious after Monterrey's dismal showing in the Leagues Cup. The team began their campaign with a 2-0 defeat and followed it up with a penalty shootout loss to Pumas, resulting in an early exit from the competition. These results highlighted the squad's struggles and cast doubt on Ortiz's tactical acumen.

Mixed Start in Liga MX

In the Liga MX, Monterrey started the season strongly, securing three wins from their first four matches. However, a crushing 4-0 defeat to Cruz Azul, reminiscent of last season's Clausura semi-final loss, exposed significant weaknesses in the team. This inconsistency has been a point of concern for both fans and the club's hierarchy.

Tenure at Monterrey

Fernando Ortiz joined Monterrey in May 2023 after a season with Club América. During his time with Los Rayados, Ortiz managed 60 matches, winning 35 and losing 15, resulting in a respectable win percentage of 58% and an average of 1.9 points per game. Despite these solid statistics, the recent poor performances in crucial competitions have overshadowed his overall record.

The Decision to Part Ways

The decision to part ways with Ortiz appears to be influenced by the immediate need for improved results and the pressure to compete at the highest levels. According to César Luis Merlo's report, the club is preparing for a change in leadership to rejuvenate the team's prospects for the remainder of the season.

Moving Forward

As Monterrey looks for a new manager, the club aims to stabilize and refocus their efforts on achieving domestic and international success. The upcoming games will be crucial for the team as they strive to recover from recent setbacks and re-establish themselves as a dominant force in Mexican football.

Monterrey's next steps will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as the club navigates this critical juncture in their season. The decision to sack Fernando Ortiz underscores the high expectations and the relentless pursuit of excellence that define Los Rayados.

If he does leave his post as Monterrey manager, who do you think should replace him?