'With that team, anyone could coach' - Mexico, Liga MX legend Cuauhtémoc Blanco downplays Andre Jardine's work at Club América

Club América are once again gearing up for another Liguilla, with their sights firmly set on making history. A fourth consecutive Liga MX title would not only solidify their dominance in Mexican football but also further enhance the legacy of Brazilian manager André Jardine, whose tenure has already been marked by consistent success.

However, one of the most iconic figures in the club’s history, Cuauhtémoc Blanco, recently cast doubt on how much credit Jardine truly deserves for América's recent accomplishments. Speaking on former footballer Shaggy Martínez’s podcast, the always-outspoken Blanco suggested that the team’s recent triumphs are more a product of financial muscle than managerial brilliance.

“They’ve invested a ton of money,” said Blanco bluntly. “They’ve got star players even on the bench. With that kind of squad, any coach could step in and lead the team.”

Despite his initial criticism, the former forward did acknowledge some of Jardine’s qualities — though not necessarily from a tactical standpoint. Blanco praised the Brazilian’s ability to manage a locker room full of high-profile players, emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity and discipline among a squad packed with talent.

“You also have to give the coach some credit,” he admitted. “I think he’s done a great job building a strong group and managing a team full of big personalities. That’s not easy. If you’re not starting, work your ass off and earn that spot. That’s how it should be.”

Blanco also pointed out how much the game has evolved in recent years, highlighting the physical demands of modern football in Liga MX.

“It’s tough now,” he said. “Back then, it wasn’t all about physicality. Today, if you don’t run, you don’t play. Simple as that.”

Now a politician, the former América and Mexico striker remains a polarizing voice in Mexican football, unafraid to challenge the current narratives — even when they involve the club where he became a legend.

Club América may be bolstered by the return of striker Henry Martín just in time for their quarterfinal showdown against Pachuca. The forward rejoined full training with Las Águilas this week after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to tendinitis.

Martín has only featured in seven matches during the Clausura 2025 campaign, scoring just once — the lowest tally of his tenure with América. Now, as the team enters the high-stakes knockout phase, he’s eager to make up for lost time and play a decisive role in their title defense.

Jardine’s Club América will take on Pachuca in the quarterfinals of the Liga MX playoffs. The two-legged series is scheduled to begin on May 7 and 8 with the first-leg matches, while the return legs will take place over the weekend.