Santos Laguna Parts Ways with Pedro Caixinha Following Champions League Exit
Santos Laguna has made the decision to part ways with head coach Pedro Caixinha after the team’s disappointing elimination from the Concacaf Champions League Round of 16. The declaration came on Thursday, following a thorough evaluation of the team’s recent performance.
“After carefully considering the team’s performance and results, the Santos Laguna Sports Committee has decided to conclude Pedro Caixinha’s tenure as head coach,” the club stated in a press release. “We express our gratitude to Pedro and his coaching staff for their professionalism and dedication.”
Caixinha’s second stint with Santos Laguna began in January, but the Portuguese manager was unable to achieve one of the club’s primary goals: securing their first-ever Concacaf Champions League title. Their aspirations were dashed on Wednesday with a loss to Canadian side CF Montréal.
Adding to the disappointment, Caixinha’s team struggled in the Clausura 2022 tournament, failing to secure a victory in their first six matches. This dismal start left Santos Laguna languishing at the bottom of the standings with a record of two draws and four losses.
This recent performance stands in stark contrast to Caixinha’s first tenure with the club from 2013 to 2015, a period marked by meaningful success. During that time,he led Santos Laguna to victory in the 2015 Clausura League,the 2014 Apertura Cup,and the 2014-2015 Champion of Champions trophy.
The Santos Laguna board is now focused on identifying a new head coach who can guide the team back to its winning ways and secure their seventh league title since their last victory in Clausura 2018.Despite the recent struggles, Santos Laguna boasts a talented roster. Uruguayan midfielders Brian Lozano and Fernando Gorriarán, who have yet to reach their full potential under Caixinha’s leadership, are key assets. The attacking line features promising players like Ecuadorian Ayrton Preciado and Colombian Harold Preciado, while the defense is anchored by the solid presence of Brazilian Matheus Doria and Ecuadorian Félix Torres.
Santos Laguna’s Coaching Change: A Necessary Step or a hasty Decision?
Joining us today is none othre than Ricardo Lavolpe, former Mexican national team coach and Liga MX veteran, to discuss the recent news of Pedro Caixinha’s departure from Santos Laguna. Ricardo, thanks for being here.
Ricardo Lavolpe: ¡Gracias por invitarme! Always happy to share my thoughts on Mexican football.
Moderator: Let’s dive right in. Santos Laguna announced Caixinha’s departure following their Champions League exit and a disappointing start to the Clausura 2022. Was this the right call by the club?
Ricardo Lavolpe: Well, it’s never easy to see a coach lose his job, especially one with Caixinha’s experience. I understand the frustration from the fans and the club. Eliminating from the Champions League is a blow, and the Clausura start was far from ideal. But Caixinha has a proven track record with santos Laguna.
Moderator: You’re referring to his first stint with the club, where he led them to major titles.Do you think the board should have given him more time to turn things around?
Ricardo Lavolpe: Football is a results-driven business, without a doubt. But, good coaches frequently enough need time and support to implement their vision, especially with a new squad. Caixinha, clearly, has the talent to succeed with Santos. Look at the players at his disposal: Lozano, Gorriarán, preciado brothers – these are not journeymen. Perhaps a touch more patience could have yielded better results.
Moderator: That’s a valid point. On the other hand, Santos Laguna hasn’t won the league title as Clausura 2018. Don’t thay need a change to break that drought?
Ricardo Lavolpe: Absolutely! Santos Laguna is a club with a rich history and a passionate fanbase. They can’t be satisfied with just participating; they wont to win. But, firing a coach after a handful of games doesn’t always guarantee immediate success. I believe Santos needs a clear long-term plan,not knee-jerk reactions.
Moderator: Well said,Ricardo. What do you think Santos should look for in their new coach?
Ricardo lavolpe: Someone who understands the club’s DNA, who can build on the existing talent, and who can, most importantly, connect with the fans. This team needs a leader who can inspire them, on and off the pitch.
Moderator: Excellent points. Now, let’s open this up to our readers. Do you agree with Santos Laguna’s decision to part ways with Pedro Caixinha? What qualities should they look for in their next coach? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Let’s keep the conversation going!
