Erik Lira's future in focus: Cruz Azul coach explains absence

Cruz Azul manager Joel Huiqui has clarified the reasons behind Erik Lira's absence from the recent match against Atlas. The coach explained that the midfielder was granted a break to handle his future as negotiations regarding a potential transfer to Europe remain ongoing.

The idea was to give Erik space due to the negotiations. It seems there is still some back-and-forth, and they haven't fully defined the budget, amounts, and other details. Today was about letting him be calm and without risk of anything happening. Joel Huiqui

Huiqui emphasized that the club wanted to avoid any potential accidents that could jeopardize the talks, which are currently focused on financial details and budget figures. While the possibility of a departure remains open, there is no definitive agreement yet with Monaco.

If the transfer is not finalized in the coming days, Lira is expected to report back to the squad next week. Huiqui expressed his support for the player's ambition while reiterating the need for full commitment should the move fall through.