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Erik Lira Returns to Cruz Azul After Monaco Transfer Collapses

From El Universal · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • Erik Lira returned to Cruz Azul's training facilities after his transfer to Monaco collapsed late in the French market.
  • His availability for Cruz Azul's match against Santos Laguna will depend on coach Joel Huiqui.
  • Lira remains under contract through June 2029, although Monaco coach Filipe Luis has said the club could pursue him in the winter window.

Erik Lira is back at La Noria after his move to AS Monaco fell apart in the final minutes of the French transfer window.

The Cruz Azul midfielder had received several days off after the failed transfer, which came after he completed his medical examinations and appeared close to joining the Ligue 1 club. He returned to training on Friday and later appeared on social media in a photograph wearing Cruz Azul's jersey.

Lira's presence in Cruz Azul's next match against Santos Laguna at Estadio Banorte will be decided by coach Joel Huiqui. The game is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 6, during the seventh round of the Apertura 2026 tournament.

The Monaco deal reportedly collapsed because the club needed to free a non-European-player roster spot. Folarin Balogun was the candidate expected to leave for Everton, but that move did not happen.

Lira remains contracted to Cruz Azul until June 2029, though his future could still include a move abroad. Monaco coach Filipe Luis has said he would pursue the Mexican midfielder in the winter transfer window. Cruz Azul currently sits 10th in the standings with nine points from three wins and three defeats.

I would go for him.

· Filipe LuisThe Monaco coach indicated that the club could pursue Erik Lira during the winter transfer window.
About this summary

Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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