'Create a team that defines an era' - Nicolás Larcamón has lofty ambitions as he takes over as head coach at Cruz Azul, his fourth appointment in Liga MX

Cruz Azul unveiled Argentine tactician Nicolás Larcamón as their new head coach ahead of the Apertura 2025 tournament, as the club will kick off its campaign on July 12 against Mazatlán FC.

The 39-year-old manager signed a two-year contract and steps into the role previously held by Uruguayan Vicente Sánchez, who led the club to impressive heights including the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup title and a semifinal berth in the most recent Clausura.

During his introductory news conference, Larcamón did not shy away from the weight of expectation, calling his new role "the biggest challenge" of his managerial journey.

"Cruz Azul is a project that truly resonates with my footballing ideals," he said. "From the first conversations, I felt a strong alignment with the club's vision. It's an enormous honor to lead such an institution."

Having guided Necaxa to the Clausura 2025 quarterfinals, Larcamón steps into one of the most demanding jobs in Mexican football. This marks his fourth appointment in Liga MX, having previously managed Puebla, León - where he captured the Champions Cup - and Necaxa.

"The demands are undoubtedly higher," he acknowledged. "But I believe the current environment at Cruz Azul is very favorable. The direction of the project, the ambitions of the club, and the footballing identity they’ve been building are all elements that attracted me here."

Larcamón highlighted the influence of Cruz Azul’s sporting director Iván Alonso in shaping the team’s current footballing philosophy - one that the Argentine believes aligns closely with his own approach.

“This is a team that’s been playing with a style I identify with," he said. "Of course, my teams always carry their own nuances and character, but I don't believe in changing everything. I believe in elevating what’s already there.”

His ambition for Cruz Azul goes beyond short-term goals, saying "What we want is to build something that lasts. Something people will remember years from now. That’s the motivation - we want to create a team that defines an era.”

The first test for Larcamón and his squad will come quickly. Cruz Azul is set to participate in a preseason mini-tournament on June 20 and 22, facing Club León first, and then taking on the winner of the Chivas vs. Atlante match.