Goalkeeper Nahuel Guzman (pictured) joined Tigres from Argentina's Newell's Old Boys in July 2014. (Photo: Mexsport)
SAN NICOLAS DE LA GARZA, Mexico – Versatility was highlighted by Nahuel Guzman as one of the primary reasons why Tigres could experience success during the 2016/17 campaign.
The goalkeeper pointed to that strength as his UANL squad prepares for its Liga MX Apertura opener at Santos on Sunday.
“We have quite a complete squad, more than anything, the resources of players playing in different positions,” said Guzman. “We have “Palma” (Jose Arturo Rivas), who can play as a three [left back] or a center back. We have “Chaka” (Luis Rodriguez), who can occupy the flank or can play inside. We have “Isra” (Israel Jimenez), who can also fulfill those positions, [Jose Francisco Torres] can play inside or outside winger or as a fullback, “Pollito” [Jesús Dueñas] can play holding midfield, or more forward as an offensive midfielder.”
A pair of forwards – newly acquired Ismael Sosa and December 2015 addition Fernando Fernandez – have proven abilities to put the ball into the back of the net, but also keep defensive duties in mind.
As a result, Guzman believes that Tigres should be in a position to win any game.
“In my way of seeing it, we have to give everything on the field, showing that it is an ambitious team…that it really wants to keep fighting for important things, being a central figure,” the 30-year-old Argentina international finished. “The people, for all that the team has demonstrated in recent times, can remain calm that this squad will leave everything in each match, that it is used to leading the way and we will try to continue on that path.”
Tigres finished as runner-up in the last Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League and will open the 2016/17 edition at Costa Rica’s Herediano on August 17.
