Joel Huiqui Achieves Dream with Cruz Azul, Sets Sights on Back-to-Back Titles

Joel Huiqui is no longer speaking as an interim coach; he now carries the confidence of someone who has achieved a major career goal. After leading Cruz Azul to the Clausura 2026 championship and signing a two-year contract, Huiqui declared that the real challenge is just beginning.

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I waited many years for this. I worked on it from home, from my preparation as a coach. I am happy. Today, I believe it; I am officially the coach of Cruz Azul.

"I waited many years for this. I worked on it from home, from my preparation as a coach. I am happy. Today, I believe it; I am officially the coach of Cruz Azul," he told the media. The former defender took over as interim coach following Nicolás Larcamón's departure in the 17th round. Under his guidance, Cruz Azul went undefeated, securing five wins and two draws, ultimately reaching the final and winning the title against Pumas.

Buoyed by the championship victory, Huiqui has set ambitious goals for the new semester. He stated that the objective remains the same: to pursue a repeat championship and contend for four other trophies: the Campeón de Campeones, the Campeones Cup, the Leagues Cup, and the league title.

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The coach lives by results. What I am trying to do is make the players aware and embrace the project. Nobody remembers the semifinals we lost; today, they talk about the Tenth… That the team is in the top positions. Here, you depend on results.

Huiqui emphasized that success does not diminish the demands of the job. He believes that results are paramount and stressed the importance of maintaining the mental fortitude that led the team to their tenth title. "The coach lives by results. What I am trying to do is make the players aware and embrace the project. Nobody remembers the semifinals we lost; today, they talk about the Tenth... That the team is in the top positions. Here, you depend on results."

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It depends on each opponent and the commitment. We are not closed off to any structure. We will always represent the club's values.

Regarding Cruz Azul's playing style, Huiqui indicated that he does not intend to confine the team to a single system, preferring flexibility based on opponents and the specific match. He also suggested that the current squad is ready for competition, while the club's management evaluates potential new signings. "It depends on each opponent and the commitment. We are not closed off to any structure. We will always represent the club's values." When asked about reinforcements, he stated, "When you achieve the objective, the next is to repeat it and for the team to be able to compete. Regarding the right-back position, today I am happy with my team," he concluded.

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When you achieve the objective, the next is to repeat it and for the team to be able to compete. Regarding the right-back position, today I am happy with my team.