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Puebla Promotes Academy Chief Albert Espigares to Head Coach for Clausura 2026

The club frames the move as a youth-led reset following a last-place Apertura.

Overview

  • The team issued an official communiqué on Nov. 20 naming Albert Espigares López as first-team manager for the upcoming Clausura 2026.
  • He replaces Hernán Cristante, who was dismissed on Nov. 12 after Puebla finished the Apertura 2025 in last place with 12 points and the league’s worst defensive record.
  • Espigares has led Puebla’s academy since early 2024, is credited with 10 first-division debuts, and holds coaching certifications from the Mexican and Spanish federations and UEFA.
  • Local reports say failed talks with external candidates and budget limits shaped the decision, and indicate he is expected to have a one-year, performance-based deal.
  • At his presentation he expressed optimism about reviving the club, and outlets named his staff: assistants Héctor “Pity” Altamirano and Rafael Fernández, fitness coaches Gustavo Leombruno and Carlos Piña, and goalkeeping coach Alan Cruz.