"It's a physical slaughter": Sebastián Abreu blasts Leagues Cup

Sebastián Abreu, coach of Mexican club Xolos de Tijuana, unleashed a scathing critique of the Leagues Cup following his team's 1-0 defeat to San Diego FC, which led to their elimination from the tournament.

Abreu, visibly frustrated, pointed to the grueling travel schedule and logistical challenges faced by Liga MX teams as a significant disadvantage. He argued that these factors negatively impact player performance and results, contrasting it sharply with the more manageable travel for MLS clubs.

"While the competition continues like this... when they understand that the footballer is a human being, not artificial intelligence, not a robot. There is wear and tear. The tournament is beautiful, it's spectacular, it helps us grow, it gives us visibility, but it's a physical slaughter to travel," Abreu stated.

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While the competition continues like this... when they understand that the footballer is a human being, not artificial intelligence, not a robot. There is wear and tear. The tournament is beautiful, it's spectacular, it helps us grow, it gives us visibility, but it's a physical slaughter to travel.

He elaborated on the disparity, explaining that MLS teams can return home after their matches to rest and be with their families, while Liga MX teams endure extensive travel. "We have to travel and those here are in their little houses, eating their food, with their families and children. They arrive, rest, watch a series, the next day they wake up calmly, have breakfast and come to train. While we are going from one place to another, like all the Liga MX teams are," he added.

Tijuana's final match in the current edition of the Leagues Cup will be against the Portland Timbers, where the coaching staff is expected to give opportunities to players who typically see limited first-team minutes.

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We have to travel and those here are in their little houses, eating their food, with their families and children. They arrive, rest, watch a series, the next day they wake up calmly, have breakfast and come to train. While we are going from one place to another, like all the Liga MX teams are.