Matías Almeyda warns Monterrey has much room for improvement

Matías Almeyda, the coach of Mexican club Monterrey, believes his team has established an identity but still has significant room for improvement to reach his desired performance level in the Apertura tournament. "The team already has an identity; everyone runs and everyone tries to play, but achieving almost perfect performance will take time," Almeyda stated in a press conference.

The team achieved a 2-0 win against Atlas in the third round of the Apertura, with goals from Diego Rossi and a penalty converted by Lucas Ocampos. This victory brings Almeyda's record to six points out of a possible nine since taking charge, placing Monterrey third in the league standings. Almeyda took over the team after they failed to qualify for the quarterfinals in the previous Clausura tournament.

Almeyda noted a positive shift in the players' attitude and confidence during his initial weeks at the club. "They are regaining confidence. There was already a good team, and the reinforcements add more quality to the group," he asserted. He plans to maintain an offensive style, incorporating players like Rossi and Orbelín Pineda, while ensuring strong defensive support. "We have reinforced our offense; we will be offensive, taking risks with good defensive coverage," he explained.

Monterrey is set to debut in the Leagues Cup against Orlando City of MLS next Wednesday. The tournament features clubs from both the Mexican and U.S. leagues.