With Torrent installed as coach, Monterrey will kick off their Club World Cup campaign on June 17 against Inter
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Monterrey failed to win Champions Cup, Clausura 2025In CWC group with Inter, River Plate, Urawa RedsDomènec Torrent will coach his first match in friendlyWatch every FIFA Club World Cup game free on DAZNStream nowAFPWHAT HAPPENED?
As Monterrey gears up for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, winger Jesús “Tecatito” Corona says the team has undergone a positive cultural shift under new head coach Domènec Torrent. The Spanish tactician replaced Martín Demichelis after a turbulent season marked by internal conflict and a disappointing early playoff exit.
One of the most talked-about incidents of the Clausura 2025 campaign was the public fallout between Sergio Canales and Demichelis, which contributed to tension in the locker room. Despite having a star-studded squad built to win titles, Rayados were eliminated in the quarterfinals, raising concerns about team chemistry and leadership.
Now, with Torrent at the helm, there’s a different atmosphere. According to Corona, one of the first values instilled by the former Manchester City assistant is unity.
“Something Torrent has instilled in us from the beginning, is being a family,” Corona said. “The group is really close now. Every day I show up to training and see the team fully committed. That motivates me.”
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Several Liga MX clubs have made managerial changes ahead of the next campaign, but Monterrey appears to be the big winner, securing Torrent. The Spanish tactician was reportedly in advanced talks with Chivas as well, but the deal ultimately fell through, allowing Rayados to swoop in.
After a disappointing Clausura 2025 under Demichelis, Torrent's hire signals a fresh start for a team loaded with star talent. Based on recent comments from winger Jesús Corona, the focus has clearly shifted toward unity and a collective playing style – a change from the individualism that seemed to plague the squad last season.
Getty Images SportWHAT TECATITO CORONA SAID
The Club World Cup will feature an expanded format and increased competition. But the Rayados winger believes the team's mindset has shifted in the right direction.
“Rayados know what these tournaments mean. We’ve been to several Club World Cups already,” Corona said. “There will be more teams this time, which makes it even more exciting. If we play with joy and belief, we’ll leave a good impression.”
The mood around the club reflects that optimism. As part of their final phase of preparations, Torrent and his players shared a traditional asado at the club's facilities, strengthening the bond between coaching staff and squad.
“We’re excited about the new project and trust the work we’re doing with the new manager,” Corona added. “Everyone’s on board, and we’re fully focused on this challenge.”
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR MONTERREY?
Torrent’s team will kick off their Club World Cup campaign on June 17 against Inter. They will then face another must-win match against River Plate before closing out the group stage against Japan’s Urawa Reds.
