Argentine midfielder Alan Franco has called for calm and focus at Tigres UANL ahead of their next Liga MX match. The player urged the squad to concentrate solely on the upcoming game against Necaxa before turning their attention to the Clásico Regio against rivals Rayados.
The report comes from Record MX this Wednesday. Tigres arrives at this fixture following a 0-0 draw against Santos Laguna on August 30. In the overall standings, the team is in a difficult 16th place with just five points from six games, sitting eleven points behind leaders Club America.
Alan Franco, Tigres UANL's Argentine central midfielder, explained the dressing room's mindset. He said the team must take it day by day and match by match, not letting the anticipation of the derby distract them. "The derby is important, but we go day by day, match after match." stated the footballer.
A victory against Necaxa, who visit the Estadio Universitario on September 6, would be a key morale boost. Tigres is looking to break a negative run of form that includes just one win in their last five outings. Checking the full schedule on our fixtures page highlights the importance of securing a home win.
The 29-year-old player discussed his acclimatization process after arriving in Liga MX. He acknowledged the competition is very demanding and that the heat has been one of the main challenges. Franco admitted to struggling slightly with the high temperatures but assured he is gradually getting used to the conditions of his new environment.
His integration is vital for a team that has conceded ten goals and scored only eight so far this season. The defensive solidity of the midfield, where Franco is a key piece, will be fundamental to improving these numbers. Individual performance details for the entire squad are available in our stats section.
Away from club matters, the Argentine also addressed Lionel Messi's retirement from the national team. Franco described the moment as painful for all Argentines. "As an Argentine, the best we have is leaving, the best in the world is leaving the national team." he commented.
He added that although they knew the farewell would come someday, the country was not emotionally prepared. Messi marked an era with the Albiceleste and his absence leaves a significant void.
Despite results and external topics, Alan Franco highlighted the strength of the group within the dressing room. He assured that the team remains united and focused on the upcoming matches. The player explained they try not to bring external issues into the squad, maintaining a clear separation.
"What happens outside stays outside," is the philosophy that, according to Franco, prevents factors unrelated to performance from affecting them. This unity is the foundation of their confidence to move forward in a complicated season. The full composition of this united group can be checked on the squad listing.
The match against Necaxa, on September 6 at home, represents an immediate opportunity for Tigres UANL to start climbing the standings. Alan Franco and his teammates are targeting three points to build confidence ahead of the highly anticipated regional derby.
