Pumas UNAM Squad 2024/25
Introduction
The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for Club Universidad Nacional, commonly known as Pumas UNAM, as they aim to reclaim their status as one of Mexico’s most formidable football teams. With a blend of experienced veterans, emerging talents, and strategic signings, the squad is poised to compete at the highest level in Liga MX and beyond. This season’s roster reflects a careful balance of youth and experience, with a focus on tactical versatility and depth across all positions. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the Pumas UNAM squad for the 2024/25 campaign, examining each player’s background, strengths, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Julio González
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Tigres UANL, Necaxa
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Julio González, a seasoned shot-stopper, has been a reliable presence between the posts for Pumas UNAM since his arrival. Known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box, González has consistently delivered crucial saves in high-pressure situations. His experience with Tigres UANL and Necaxa has honed his ability to read the game, making him a vital asset in both league matches and cup competitions. Standing at 6’2”, he dominates aerial duels and is a vocal leader, organizing the defensive line effectively.
- Sebastián Sosa
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Former Clubs: Independiente, Boca Juniors, Atlas
- Transfer Fee: $1.5 million (2023)
Sebastián Sosa, the Uruguayan goalkeeper, brings a wealth of international experience to Pumas UNAM. Having played for top clubs like Boca Juniors and Independiente, Sosa is renowned for his composure under pressure and exceptional distribution skills. His ability to play out from the back aligns perfectly with Pumas’ tactical approach. At 37, he remains a formidable presence, combining agility with a deep understanding of the game. His leadership and mentorship have been invaluable to younger players in the squad.
- Alejandro García
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Pumas UNAM Academy
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
A product of Pumas’ renowned youth system, Alejandro García is a promising young goalkeeper with immense potential. At just 21 years old, he has already shown glimpses of his talent during cup appearances. García’s quick reflexes and ability to stay calm in one-on-one situations make him a future star. While he is still developing, his dedication and work ethic suggest he could soon challenge for the starting spot.
Defenders
- Nicolás Freire
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Universidad de Chile, Palmeiras, UNAM Pumas (returning from loan)
- Transfer Fee: Loan return (2024)
Nicolás Freire’s return to Pumas UNAM bolsters the team’s defensive line significantly. The Argentine center-back is known for his aerial prowess, tactical intelligence, and ability to play out from the back. Having spent time at Palmeiras, Freire brings a wealth of experience from competing in top South American leagues. His leadership and organizational skills make him a key figure in Pumas’ backline, ensuring stability and resilience.
- Arturo Ortiz
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Santos Laguna, Querétaro
- Transfer Fee: $2 million (2023)
Arturo Ortiz is a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and right-back. His physicality and ability to read the game have made him a mainstay in Pumas’ defense. Ortiz’s time at Santos Laguna and Querétaro has equipped him with the experience needed to handle Liga MX’s demanding schedule. His knack for scoring from set-pieces adds an extra dimension to his game, making him a threat in both boxes.
- Jesús Rivas
- Nationality: Venezuelan
- Former Clubs: Deportivo Táchira, Atlético San Luis
- Transfer Fee: $1.2 million (2024)
Jesús Rivas, the Venezuelan right-back, is a dynamic addition to Pumas’ defensive unit. Known for his pace and overlapping runs, Rivas provides width and attacking support down the flank. His defensive discipline and ability to track back quickly make him a balanced full-back. Rivas’ experience in both South American and Mexican football ensures he adapts seamlessly to Pumas’ style of play.
- Efraín Velarde
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Monterrey, Lobos BUAP
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
A veteran of Mexican football, Efraín Velarde brings experience and versatility to Pumas’ defense. Capable of playing as a left-back or center-back, Velarde’s tactical awareness and composure make him a reliable option. His leadership on and off the pitch has been instrumental in guiding younger players, and his set-piece delivery remains a valuable asset.
- Lisandro Magallán
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Boca Juniors, Ajax, Elche
- Transfer Fee: Loan with option to buy (2024)
Lisandro Magallán, the Argentine center-back, joins Pumas on loan with an option to buy. Known for his physicality and ability to play out from the back, Magallán has experience in top European leagues, including a stint at Ajax. His presence adds depth and quality to Pumas’ defensive options, making him a key player for the 2024/25 season.
Midfielders
- Erik Lira
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Cruz Azul, Necaxa
- Transfer Fee: $3 million (2023)
Erik Lira is a dynamic midfielder known for his energy, tackling, and ability to break up play. His performances at Cruz Azul and Necaxa earned him a move to Pumas, where he has become a vital cog in the team’s engine room. Lira’s ability to transition quickly from defense to attack makes him a complete midfielder, capable of influencing games at both ends of the pitch.
- Leonel López
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Pumas UNAM Academy
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Promoted from academy)
Leonel López is a homegrown talent who has risen through Pumas’ ranks to establish himself as a key midfielder. His vision, passing range, and ability to dictate tempo make him a standout player. López’s understanding of the club’s philosophy and his technical skills ensure he remains a fan favorite and a crucial part of the team’s future.
- Santiago Trigos
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Atlas, Tijuana
- Transfer Fee: $1.8 million (2024)
Santiago Trigos is a versatile midfielder capable of playing in both defensive and attacking roles. His work rate, ball retention, and ability to create chances make him a valuable asset. Trigos’ experience at Atlas and Tijuana has prepared him for the demands of Liga MX, and his arrival adds depth to Pumas’ midfield options.
- Ulises Rivas
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Atlas, Querétaro
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Ulises Rivas is a hardworking midfielder known for his defensive contributions and ability to shield the backline. His tenacity and ability to win duels make him a key player in Pumas’ tactical setup. Rivas’ experience and leadership qualities have made him a respected figure in the squad.
- Gabriel Fernández
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Former Clubs: Peñarol, Monterrey
- Transfer Fee: $2.5 million (2024)
Gabriel Fernández, the Uruguayan midfielder, is a creative force in Pumas’ lineup. Known for his dribbling, vision, and ability to score from distance, Fernández adds flair and unpredictability to the team’s attack. His experience at Peñarol and Monterrey has prepared him for the challenges of Liga MX, making him a key signing for the 2024/25 season.
Forwards
- Juan Ignacio Dinenno
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Rosario Central, Universidad Católica
- Transfer Fee: $4 million (2022)
Juan Ignacio Dinenno is Pumas’ talismanic striker, known for his clinical finishing and aerial ability. The Argentine forward has been a consistent goal scorer since joining the club, earning plaudits for his work rate and ability to perform in crucial moments. Dinenno’s leadership and experience make him a cornerstone of Pumas’ attack.
- Gabriel Torres
- Nationality: Panamanian
- Former Clubs: Colorado Rapids, Huachipato
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Gabriel Torres, the Panamanian forward, brings pace and versatility to Pumas’ frontline. Capable of playing as a winger or center-forward, Torres’ ability to stretch defenses and create chances makes him a valuable asset. His experience in MLS and South American football ensures he adapts well to Pumas’ style of play.
- Eduardo Salvio
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Benfica, Boca Juniors
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Eduardo Salvio, the experienced Argentine winger, joins Pumas with a wealth of experience from top European and South American clubs. Known for his dribbling, crossing, and ability to score from wide positions, Salvio adds creativity and flair to Pumas’ attack. His leadership and experience make him a key addition to the squad.
- César Huerta
- Nationality: Mexican
- Former Clubs: Pachuca, Mazatlán
- Transfer Fee: $1.5 million (2023)
César Huerta is a dynamic winger known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to create chances. His performances at Pachuca and Mazatlán earned him a move to Pumas, where he has become a fan favorite. Huerta’s ability to take on defenders and deliver accurate crosses makes him a crucial part of Pumas’ attacking setup.
- Diogo de Oliveira
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Fluminense, Atlético Goianiense
- Transfer Fee: $2 million (2024)
Diogo de Oliveira, the Brazilian forward, is a versatile attacker capable of playing as a striker or second forward. Known for his technical skills, movement, and ability to link play, de Oliveira adds a new dimension to Pumas’ attack. His arrival from Fluminense signals Pumas’ ambition to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Pumas UNAM squad is a blend of experience, youth, and tactical versatility, designed to compete on multiple fronts. With key signings and the integration of academy talents, the team is well-equipped to challenge for titles and entertain fans with their dynamic style of play. As the season unfolds, the squad’s depth and quality will be put to the test, but the foundations are in place for a successful campaign. Pumas UNAM’s commitment to developing talent and making strategic signings ensures they remain a force to be reckoned with in Mexican football.