The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is fast approaching, with participating teams ramping up preparations ahead of the tournament’s June 14 kickoff. But things have taken an unfortunate turn for Sergio Ramos, as the Spanish defender has suffered a major setback at Monterrey just one month before the competition begins.
Monterrey faced Toluca on Saturday in the second leg of the Liga MX quarterfinals, having won the first leg 3–2. Playing without Ramos—who was sidelined with a muscle strain—Rayados lost 2–1, resulting in a 4–4 aggregate score. Toluca advanced on away goals, eliminating Monterrey in a crushing blow that triggered swift repercussions within the club.
Following the loss, Monterrey’s front office decided to part ways with head coach Martin Demichelis. The decision was made by sporting director Antonio Noriega, who cited a string of disappointing results and internal conflict between the coaching staff and players.
Demichelis had a promising start with the club, leading the team to the Liga MX final in December 2024. However, things began to unravel in 2025. A premature exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup, a reported rift with midfielder Sergio Canales, and now a quarterfinal defeat to Toluca proved to be too much. When asked about his future following the loss, the Argentine coach responded:
“I believe we all deserve a second chance, so I’m proud of the institution I’m part of. I’ll always have the strength to keep going—there are things in life that are extremely difficult. This is very painful for the fans and for the club. We had much higher aspirations, the club deserves much more, and so does the squad. I will continue with the same strength and integrity that define me, but of course, there are things that don’t depend on me,” he said during the post-match press conference.
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Demichelis joined the Mexican side in August 2024 after a stint with River Plate. He departs after just two tournaments and one full season in charge, having led the team in 43 matches with a record of 20 wins, 11 draws, and 12 losses.
Bad news for Sergio Ramos ahead of the Club World Cup
While Demichelis faced criticism over the team’s recent performances, he was the first and only coach Ramos has worked under since joining Monterrey. His dismissal now leaves the club racing against time to find a suitable replacement ahead of the Club World Cup.
Monterrey will compete in Group E of the tournament alongside Inter Milan, River Plate, and Urawa Red Diamonds. Ramos and his team will open against the Italian side on June 17, face River Plate on June 21, and close the group stage against the Japanese club on June 25. The minimum expectation: advance past the group stage.
