Will Sergio Ramos play in Monterrey’s Liga MX Clausura 2025 quarterfinal clash against Toluca? That question has dominated the headlines in recent days.
Will Sergio Ramos play in Monterrey’s Liga MX Clausura 2025 quarterfinal clash against Toluca? That question has dominated the headlines in recent days, as fans, pundits, and opponents alike wonder whether the Spanish legend will return to the pitch just in time for the Liguilla’s most crucial stage.
Despite the air of uncertainty, one thing is clear: Monterrey will need to summon all their strength and resilience if they hope to survive this high-stakes test without the steadying presence of their captain.
When Sergio Ramos joined Monterrey in the sixth round of the Clausura 2025, it sent shockwaves through Mexican soccer. His signing was not just a marquee move—it was seen as a symbolic moment in Liga MX history, validating the league’s growing stature on the global stage.
In the matches he did play, the Spaniard immediately elevated Rayados’ defensive line, bringing not only his storied experience from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, but also a tactical awareness that helped organize and lead from the back. He averaged 3.0 clearances and 1.3 tackles per game, showcasing the same steel that made him a world champion.
But his impact wasn’t just tactical. Ramos’s mere presence galvanized the squad. As Posta Deportes put it, “His absence during the regular season saw Monterrey falter, losing three of four matches without him—a stark illustration of his impact.”
Injury setback dampens momentum
Ramos has been sidelined since April 20, when he limped off the field during a grueling Round 17 contest against Club Leon. His substitution in the 75th minute was more than precautionary—it marked the beginning of an injury spell that has now stretched into a third consecutive match.
According to Posta Deportes, “Ramos has not trained with the team for several weeks and remains sidelined.” Although there was initial hope that he might be fit in time for the Toluca showdown, that optimism has faded. On Monday and Tuesday this week, he was spotted training separately from the main group, a sign that full fitness remains elusive.
When is Ramos expected to return?
Monterrey’s path to the Liguilla has been anything but smooth. After a loss to Pachuca in their opening Play-In match, Rayados had to claw their way through a must-win second match against Pumas. They succeeded, thanks to standout individual performances and tactical flexibility.
However, their position as the lower seed gives Toluca a crucial advantage. Not only do the league leaders have home-field advantage in the second leg, but they also advance in the event of an aggregate draw, courtesy of their superior regular-season finish.
While the 39-year-old veteran will not be in uniform for the first leg on Wednesday, May 7, there is cautious optimism surrounding his potential return for the second leg. “There is optimism that Ramos may be available for the second leg, scheduled for Saturday, May 10,” sources told Posta Deportes.
