Following a nine-match winless streak in Liga MX and Concacaf Champions Cup, Cruz Azul has dismissed Nicolás Larcamón, appointing Joel Huiqui as his interim replacement. Huiqui, known for his time as a Celeste player and current U21 coach, takes on a significant challenge at La Noria, recalling his unique history of having won a championship with another team.

Joel Huiqui's career path in Mexican football first led him to Cruz Azul Hidalgo before joining Pachuca in 2003. After a year with the Tuzos, the central defender got his opportunity to play with La Máquina in the first division, where he remained until 2010, establishing himself as a memorable figure for the fans.

Nevertheless, it was during his brief stint at Pachuca, in the capital of Hidalgo state, where Joel Huiqui achieved glory. In the Apertura 2003 Liga MX tournament, the Mexican defender became champion, lifting the trophy in just six months as a Hidalguense player, a feat he could not replicate with Cruz Azul.

Pachuca's road to that Apertura 2003 championship was remarkable. In the quarterfinals, they eliminated the Rayos de Necaxa, then knocked out the Potros de Hierro del Atlante in the semifinals. Finally, the Tuzos prevailed in the grand final, with Huiqui being a fundamental part of that victorious team.

Now, as interim coach for Cruz Azul, Joel Huiqui faces the task of revitalizing the team. His experience as a player and his knowledge of the club, from his role in the U21 category, will be crucial in attempting to reverse La Máquina's current difficult situation in Liga MX and the Concacaf Champions Cup.