'Many have surprised me' - Monterrey's Sergio Canales impressed by quality of Liga MX, names his top three players

In his two years in Mexican football, Sergio Canales has been impressed by the talent in Liga MX. When asked to name the players who have stood out the most, the former Real Madrid midfielder highlighted Alexis Vega, Luis Romo, and Jesús Gallardo for their power, technique, and skill. Notably, Canales’ list did not include anyone from América, the reigning three-time Mexican league champion.

"Many have surprised me. I really like [Alexis] Vega from Toluca; he’s a player I find super interesting. But there are many. There are players I’ve faced and played with - Luis Romo, [Jesús] Gallardo - players with a lot of power, great technique, very well-prepared, really talented people," Canales said on the La Capitana podcast.

Canales' mention of Vega points to the Mexican forward resurgence in Liga MX. After a difficult period in his career, Vega is experiencing a resurgence in Liga MX. Once questioned for his form and off-field issues, the Mexican forward has rediscovered his best level since joining Toluca for the Clausura 2025. In the current tournament, he has registered nine goals and seven assists in 13 matches - numbers that earned him a call-up to the Mexican national team for the Nations League Finals, where El Tri went on to win with Vega playing a key role.

Canales is in his fourth season with Rayados de Monterrey, and although he has yet to help his team win a Liga MX title - losing last season’s final against América - the Spaniard, along with the signings the club has made in recent seasons, has drawn international attention to Mexican football.

Martín Demichelis’ squad is one of the league’s biggest contenders, and even though they are not at their best in the Clausura 2025, currently sitting in ninth place. Still, they remain a must-watch team every weekend due to their squad -- with players of the caliber of Sergio Ramos, Óliver Torres, Lucas Ocampos, and Canales. Rayados have the talent to compete at the highest level and could make noise in the playoffs - if they make it.

Canales mentioned that there are several Mexican players in Liga MX with the quality to play in Europe. However, he pointed out that for various reasons, some choose to stay in Mexico, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. He emphasized that many players who remain in Liga MX end up having better careers than some who make the move to Europe.

“There is plenty of talent; sometimes it’s about having the opportunity, and other times it’s about recognizing that there are Mexican players who have built great careers here [in Liga MX], even better than some who have gone to Europe,” said Canales.

Rayados face a crucial match this Saturday when they host Chivas on Matchday 14 of the Clausura 2025. Led by Demichelis, the team cannot afford to keep dropping points after suffering a surprising loss last weekend against Xolos, one of the teams at the bottom of the standings.

This is an important match for Monterrey as they must start securing three points to qualify for the play-in. Failure to advance could end the careers of some key players who have not performed as expected, as well as the tenure of the Argentine coach.