Santos Laguna kicked off its 2026 project with a bold promise: the Liga MX title. Club president Aleco Irarragorri confirmed the objective is to regain prominence after a tough start, including a 0-0 draw with Atlas on July 26. The executive stressed that Renato Paiva’s rebuild demands time, but insisted the Warriors have the squad and structure to deliver. The team sits 12th with zero points, six behind leaders Club Tijuana, with a -1 goal difference (2 scored, 3 conceded) and no wins in its last four games (DDLL).
What did Aleco Irarragorri say about Santos Laguna’s project?
Irarragorri made clear the board isn’t chasing instant results but building a long-term process. "I can’t afford to panic. When you have a clear goal, as I said last summer, it’s that we will be champions at Santos. That’s the project," he stated. The president noted the transfer window was handled precisely: six signings joined to shore up key areas and aim first for a playoff spot. He also said Atlas’s sale by Grupo Orlegi will let all resources focus on the lagunero side.
The executive also backed coach Renato Paiva, calling him "a top professional with an excellent staff and a notable career." Irarragorri stressed they share the same vision for the team’s direction and that the Portuguese understands success will take time. "His desire is to win here," he added.
Which reinforcements are key for Santos in 2026?
Santos Laguna bolstered its roster with six players during the transfer window, prioritizing critical positions to compete in Liga MX. While the president didn’t name names, he confirmed signings were planned to strengthen the team without overloading the squad. The immediate goal is to regain competitive rhythm and vie for a playoff berth after several uneven campaigns.
Irarragorri also said investment in infrastructure and institutional growth will continue, including initiatives to boost Liga MX, such as potential centralization of broadcast rights. "We want to return Santos to the top tier of Mexican football," he said.
What’s next for Santos Laguna in the short term?
The team faces its next test on August 2 away to Club América, currently third in the table. Santos arrives on a four-game winless streak (0W-2D-2L) and a shaky start. Yet the president insisted patience is vital for Paiva’s project to bear fruit. "We must create the conditions to achieve success," Irarragorri said.
The club also clarified there are no conflicts with Pumas over interest in Jordan Carrillo, the player sold to Chivas. The executive reiterated Santos’s commitment to Mexican football’s growth, including topics like reinstating promotion and relegation.
League standing: 12th in Liga MX, 0 pts, 0W-0D-1L from 1 games, recent form L. Title race: 6 points behind Club Tijuana. Last result: Santos Laguna 0-0 Atlas (2026-07-26). Recent form (last 4): 0W-2D-2L (DDLL). Next fixture: vs Club America (away, 2026-08-02).
