'Criticism doesn’t matter to me anymore' - Luis Ángel Malagón warns that América is hungry for 'revenge' after early stumbles, elimination from Leagues Cup

After a trophyless first half of the year and missing out on the Club World Cup, América entered the Apertura 2025 with some early stumbles - but without a defeat. Their elimination from the Leagues Cup added more doubts, yet back-to-back away wins in tough venues and the arrival of Allan Saint-Maximin have helped restore confidence at Coapa.

Goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón made it clear that the squad is determined to make up for lost ground.

“What are we here for right now? Obviously for revenge,” Malagón told MedioTiempo. “What happened in the last two finals was very painful. After winning and winning, facing the other side of the coin was tough. But this América is here to compete, to go for trophies. We need to get back to that place everyone wants us to be, and believe me, that’s André Jardine’s conviction.”

The 28-year-old believes the blend of new signings, experienced players, and Jardine’s leadership gives América the strength to once again fight for the top.

“Believe me, it can be done. The squad is very young, but you can see we all want to battle, to be back at the top -  especially to be champions again,” he added. “Criticism doesn’t matter to me anymore."

Malagón has been under fire in recent months, with questions over his place at América and a perceived campaign against him as Mexico’s starting goalkeeper. Still, he insists he’s unfazed.

“Being close to the people I love, especially my daughter, has given me a new perspective on life. Before, I won’t deny it, I used to check my phone to see what people said. Now I honestly don’t care. As a player and as a person, criticism helps you not to relax,” Malagón concluded.

André Jardine’s side are one of only two unbeaten teams in the tournament - along with Cruz Azul. With back-to-back away wins and four victories overall, the Águilas will be looking to climb into first place against the Tuzos.