Richard Sánchez Leaves Club América for Racing Club Amidst Controversy

MÉXICO CITY, Mexico (AP) — Richard Sánchez is set to leave Club América to join Racing Club of Avellaneda, ending his tenure with the Mexican team after five seasons. The official announcement is expected soon as Sánchez has already traveled to Argentina for medical examinations.

The decision for Sánchez to depart comes after a notable decrease in his playing time under coach André Jardine. Despite being instrumental in helping América secure a tricampeonato, Sánchez’s role diminished, leading to his choice to seek more opportunities at Racing.

“Many thanks for your goals, dedication, and commitment to our colors, Richard Sánchez. We wish you the best in your next project,” América expressed through their social media channels.

América’s management has expressed concerns regarding their foreign player quota, with Sánchez’s departure opening a crucial non-Mexican player spot for the team. Recent discussions within the management have considered registering Igor Lichnovsky, a defender who is recovering from injury, to take over this newly available position.

Currently, however, with the transfer window closed since February 2, América cannot sign a direct replacement for Sánchez for the ongoing Clausura 2025 season. This has raised questions regarding the club’s strategy moving forward, especially given their intensifying competition in the Liga MX and Concacaf Champions Cup.

While Lichnovsky seems like a strong candidate to fill the opening, the club also contemplates releasing Sebastián Cáceres, who has shown intentions of leaving since previous transfer windows. His transfer would create additional room for new foreign talent, potentially targeting Rodrigo Dourado from Atlético de San Luis.

Sánchez’s career at Club América included 211 matches, 27 assists, and 18 goals, with crucial contributions in finals, cementing his place in the club’s history. His departure signals a shift for the Azulcrema, who will need to strategically address their midfield during the remainder of the season.

“We believe this is a good moment for a change,” Sánchez stated, reflecting on his time with América after clinching the tricampeonato. “The club has given me everything since day one.”