Santos Laguna is building a new talent identification system powered by data analytics and artificial intelligence. Head coach Gonzalo Pineda detailed the project in an exclusive interview, emphasising that technology will serve as an initial filter to spot players for both the first team and the youth academy.
The work focuses on strengthening scouting networks in Mexico and the United States, with Omar Tapia and Andrés Bejarano leading the development of homegrown talent. Pineda clarified that the analytical tool will not replace direct observation but will complement it. "Creo que el proceso de scouteo, hoy en día el analytics te da un montón de herramientas para poder filtrar mucho mejor y a partir de ahí concentrarte en lo cualitativo, ya con gente específica en territorio," the manager said.
Several players from the U-19 and U-21 categories are already under close watch and have had contact with the senior squad. This modernising push comes as the team looks to stabilise its course in Liga MX. The Guerreros currently sit 17th in the table with just 4 points from eight games, having recorded one win, one draw, and six defeats.
The recent 2-1 win over FC Juárez, with goals from Ezequiel Bullaude and Esteban Lozano, broke a poor run of form. The schedule gets tougher next, however, with a trip to face league leaders Toluca on September 21st. Supporters can check the challenging road ahead on the fixtures page and the current squad list.
Implementing this mixed methodology aims to optimise resources and time in the hunt for gems, a key objective for a club needing reinforcement for the immediate future. The upcoming match against the leaders will be a first test under this new working philosophy.
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