Marcel Ruiz Reappears with Toluca; Played 18 Minutes in Concacaf Champions Cup

After a challenging 35-day layoff due to a right knee injury, Mexican midfielder Marcel Ruiz has made a significant comeback, rejoining his team, Toluca. His return to the pitch during the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal match against LA Galaxy, where Toluca secured a decisive 3-0 victory, marks a crucial moment for both the player and the club.

Ruiz entered the game in the 72nd minute, contributing to the team's advancement to the tournament's semifinals. This appearance is particularly noteworthy given the initial diagnosis of a torn anterior cruciate ligament and medial meniscus tear, which was later clarified as a partial tear. His successful return not only strengthens Toluca's squad for their ongoing campaigns in the Concacaf Champions Cup and the Clausura 2026 Liga MX season but also reignites his aspirations for a spot in the Mexican national team for the 2026 World Cup.

National team coach Javier Aguirre has previously expressed confidence in Ruiz's potential, acknowledging his desire to be part of the squad despite injury uncertainties. With the World Cup roster selection approaching, Ruiz's reintegration into competitive play is a timely development. His performance in the upcoming matches will be closely watched as he aims to solidify his place in Aguirre's final selection.

Toluca's next Liga MX fixture is a significant clash against América on Saturday, April 18th, at 21:10 hours (Central Mexico time), as part of Jornada 15 of the Clausura 2026 tournament. Ruiz's continued participation and form in these crucial games will be key to his World Cup ambitions and Toluca's success.

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Nobody will come at one hundred percent. You might like his style. I understand he is playing, participating, of course I believe in people. To give a name as discarded... I wouldn't dare. Marcel wants to be there.