Rayados will host Pumas this Sunday in a do-or-die match for a spot in the Liguilla – the winner will face Toluca in the quarterfinals

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• Canales hasn’t played since Matchday 13 due to various injuries
• Sergio Ramos and Óliver Torres are also expected to return
• Pumas have never managed a victory at Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Martín Demichelis has firmly denied any rift with Spanish midfielder Sergio Canales, emphasizing that their working relationship remains professional and intact. The Monterrey manager was clear: if there had been any real conflict, the player would have been removed from team activities.

  “If there were serious issues between me and Sergio Canales, I would have already separated him from the group,” Demichelis stated at a press conference. “But that’s not the case. Nothing like that has happened. I spoke with Sergio earlier this week, just like I talk with all of my players.”

  Speculation over Canales’ potential exit had gained momentum in recent days, following rumors of a heated argument with the coach and a supposed breakdown in communication. Canales has not featured since Matchday 13 of the Clausura 2025 season — initially due to a foot injury reportedly sustained after that alleged dispute, and later due to muscle discomfort.

  Despite the off-field noise, the former Real Madrid man has had a strong tournament when fit, recording six goals and six assists in just 13 appearances.

  Demichelis confirmed that Canales is on track to return this weekend, reassuring fans with an update on the midfielder’s recovery: “I was happy to see him looking good. When you speak with a player, you can feel whether they’re engaged or not — and his desire to return is very clear. Being sidelined by injury is always frustrating, but what truly matters here is Monterrey.”

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  It will be worth closely monitoring whether Óliver Torres and Sergio Ramos are fit to feature this Sunday, as Monterrey face a must-win showdown against Pumas in the final Play-In round.is fighting to salvage a season that has so far fallen short of expectations, especially following the high-profile arrival of Ramos.

  Tension continues to build around the club, not only due to on-field pressure but also because of off-pitch issues that have stirred uncertainty. Meanwhile, Pumas come into the match with momentum and confidence, having defeated FC Juárez on penalties and led by a determined Efraín Juárez, who is hungry to prove himself.

  As one team rides a wave of optimism, the other braces for a high-stakes night at home, surrounded by doubts about what might happen if they fall short.

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  WHAT MARTÍN DEMICHELIS SAID

  Tension is high heading into ’s upcoming Play-In clash against Pumas, especially after their loss to Pachuca in the first round. The match could prove decisive not just for the club’s season, but potentially for Demichelis’ future at the helm.

  Fortunately, the Argentine coach is seeing key figures return to fitness at the right moment. He expressed optimism that Canales could be joined by fellow Spaniards Ramos and Torres in the squad.

  “We’ve started the week very well, with great attitude and commitment from the entire squad — even those coming off injuries,” said Demichelis. “Sergio Ramos is doing everything in his power to be ready for Sunday. Óliver Torres is set to rejoin group training today. As for Canales, he’s had two excellent sessions. His balance, demeanor, and intensity over the past two days give us a lot of hope. We’re confident he’ll be ready for the weekend.”

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  DID YOU KNOW?

  Pumas have never managed a victory at Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA, also known as "El Gigante de Acero." Their last away win against La Pandilla came at the club’s previous stadium, back on Matchday 12 of the Apertura 2013 tournament.

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