When Mexico’s first roster assembled by new head coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino was unveiled last week, one club team was significantly more represented than others. Upcoming Quakes opponent Monterrey had five players chosen, two more than any other side.
The Monterrey players selected include defenders Jesus Gallardo, Miguel Layun and Cesar Montes, midfielder Carlos Rodriguez, and forward Rodolfo Pizarro. El Tri will take on Chile and Paraguay, the second of which takes place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara on Tuesday, March 26.
Gallardo, Layun and Pizarro are well established with the Mexico National Team, while young up-and-comers Montes and Rodriguez look to make a name for themselves. Layun, 30, is certainly the most recognizable worldwide, having played for European teams such as Watford, Porto, Sevilla and Villarreal. He has tallied six goals in 69 appearances for his country.
Outside of Monterrey, only Chivas has more than two selections: goalkeeper Raul Gudino, midfielder Isaac Brizuela – a native of San Jose – and forward Alexis Vega. America, Santos Laguna, Tigres, Real Betis and PSV Eindhoven are each sending two.
Tickets are still available for the Quakes-Monterrey clash at Avaya Stadium on Saturday, March 23 (4:45 p.m.). It marks Monterrey’s first-ever contest in San Jose.
