The Mexican midfielder joins UNAM as a free agent, signaling a new era for the club as they rebuild under new leadership.
UNAM has not claimed a league title since 2011, yet their sustained presence at the top of the table has reflected a program built on consistency and depth. After a disheartening 2022 that barely extended into oblivion without a rematch, the club now focuses on Clausura 2023 and a restructure led by Rafael Puente Del Río, who strived to shape a squad capable of reclaiming prominence.
With a little more than two months elapsed in the new season, the transfer market is already active as UNAM pursues a swift return to the upper echelon. Fans and observers alike expect bold moves designed to restore the team’s competitive edge.
Here is a comprehensive update on the likely movements for the Auriazul squad as they chase a revival.
JESÚS MOLINA IMPRESSES PUMAS
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Following a recent evaluation period, the coaching staff, led by Rafael Puente, approved the acquisition of Jesús Molina. The midfielder arrives on a free transfer after his contract with Chivas expired, bringing experience and versatility to the middle of the park.
SEBASTIÁN SOSA BECOMES THE NEW GOALKEEPER
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With a background spanning Monarcas Morelia and Mazatlán, the Uruguayan national team goalkeeper is poised to shore up the squad. Sosa has already landed in Mexico City after the World Cup in Qatar, finalizing contract details with Pedregal’s side to solidify the back line for the upcoming campaign.
JERÓNIMO RODRÍGUEZ DEPARTS
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Through social channels, the university campus confirmed Jerónimo Rodríguez’s exit. The Mexican winger closes a chapter with the club that began in 2020 following a stint with Real Oviedo’s lower divisions in Spain.
ULISES RIVAS ARRIVES AT PEDREGAL
The midfielder terminated his contract with Santos Laguna and signs with UNAM as a free agent. At 26 years old, he becomes the first reinforcement under Puente Del Río, stepping in to fill the void created by the departure of Leonel López.
VELARDE DOES NOT RETURN
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After a return to the club in 2021, the board chose not to renew Efraín Velarde’s contract. His playing time declined as Adrián Aldrete arrived in the previous season, and Velarde moves on as a free agent seeking new opportunities elsewhere.
JAIME LOZANO AND THE COACHING FUTURE
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While negotiations with Tuca Ferreti did not mature into a formal agreement, Jaime Lozano became the leading candidate to take the reins. However, reports indicate disputes between the board and the coaching staff derailed the plan, leaving Lozano as a potential option for future horizons rather than for the Clausura 2023 start.
LEO LÓPEZ LEAVES THE CLUB
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Leonel López publicly announced via social media that he will not remain with UNAM for the next season. The Mexican midfielder departs after six seasons, during which he played in Liga MX finals and continent-wide cup finals, exiting as a free agent seeking new challenges.
Note: Information reflects the club’s public updates and typical transfer activity patterns observed in recent seasons.