Top 5 Questions as Liga MX Season Begins Without Star Players Deciding Champion
Liga MX is gearing up for an exciting season, set to kick off soon. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, teams face unique challenges, especially regarding player availability. Here are five essential questions as the league begins a busy campaign.
1. How Will Star Players’ Absences Affect the Teams?
This season, some prominent players will miss matches due to commitments with the national team. Notable absences include:
- Club América’s goalkeeper Luis Angel Malagon
- Defender Israel Reyes
- Toluca’s Alexis Vega
- Chivas’ Tala Rangel, Armando Gonzalez, Roberto Alvarado, and Luis Romo
2. What Changes Are Being Implemented This Season?
This year’s structure includes several modifications:
- The play-in format has been eliminated to streamline the season.
- Midweek games will be more frequent due to scheduling adjustments.
- Jornada 2 will commence just days after the opening weekend.
3. How Will Teams Adapt to Early Season Challenges?
With critical players unavailable, coaching staff must be agile. Managers may experiment with different lineups to cope with their star players’ absence. Early points dropped could severely impact the standings.
4. What Are the Implications of International Breaks?
International breaks will significantly influence the Liga MX schedule. Key friendlies are scheduled as the third and fourth jornadas will take place on:
- Jornada 3: January 16-18
- Jornada 4: January 30
5. Can Past Champions Defend Their Titles?
Toluca aims to retain its title amid player losses. Last season, Alexis Vega played a crucial role in their championship run, particularly in the penalty shootout. However, with potential losses looming, their ability to adapt will be critical. The team has plans in place to face these challenges head-on.
As the Liga MX season unfolds, teams will navigate these questions and strive for success while adjusting to unexpected hurdles. The league’s commitment to national team initiatives presents both challenges and opportunities for growth and competition.
