Former Brazilian midfielder Alemao is reflecting on his short but impactful stint with Liga MX giants Cruz Azul in 2015, detailing how a deal facilitated by influential agent Carlos hurtado abruptly ended via email. In a recent interview with ESPN, Alemao recounted the initial promise shown by the club and the surprising turn of events that led to his departure despite strong on-field performance, exceeding the output of high-profile teammate Roque Santa Cruz. Now retired and pursuing a career in coaching, Alemao shares his experience and lingering affection for the Mexico City club.
Brazilian Midfielder Recounts Deal with Agent, Unexpected Exit from Cruz Azul
Table of Contents
Alemao arrived at Cruz Azul for the Clausura 2015 season thanks to Carlos Hurtado, a legendary figure in Mexican soccer representation. Despite assurances from the club’s leadership, then headed by Agustín Manzo, that he would receive a longer look, an unexpected email abruptly ended the Brazilian’s stint with *La Máquina* after just six months.
“To be honest, (Carlos) Hurtado is the one who helped me get to Cruz Azul,” Alemao revealed in an interview with ESPN. He also noted that the presence of Pintado, an assistant coach under Luis Fernando Tena, who had previously coached him in Brazil, played a role in the move.
“I have to be grateful to Pintado, because he opened all the doors for me, with Cruz Azul, as he did with Hurtado, because Hurtado didn’t know me. After I started playing, I spoke with him, and it was a pleasant surprise.”
Alemao described Carlos Hurtado as charismatic, cheerful, and playful, and he developed a strong relationship with him. Even Hurtado’s family assisted the Brazilian during his six months with Cruz Azul. After his departure, he no longer spoke with the agent, who had mentioned the possibility of a move to the Chicago Fire of MLS.
“I never participated in negotiations because I just wanted to play, to be at Cruz Azul, but the opportunities I had with Hurtado were always very good.”
Email Delivered Shock Exit from Cruz Azul
After playing in the Clausura 2015 season with Cruz Azul, Alemao returned to Brazil for vacation with the promise from Agustín Manzo and Carlos Hurtado that his loan from Ponte Preta would be extended. There was even talk of the club purchasing his contract outright, especially after he posted three goals and four assists – numbers that surpassed those of star signing Roque Santa Cruz. However, those plans never materialized.
“I received an email saying that Cruz Azul would no longer be counting on me, and I was very sad, to be honest. I was excited, I was hopeful to receive another opportunity, because I knew my potential, I knew what I had done while I was there, and I was hoping for a little more time, a little more opportunity.”
Alemao still holds Cruz Azul in high regard, considering himself a fan of the club. He remembers watching them compete in the 2014 Club World Cup against Real Madrid and later playing alongside those same players.
“It’s a club that has marked my life. When I arrived in Mexico and saw the size of Cruz Azul, I really didn’t know it was so big, because it truly is something surreal.”
What’s Next for Alemao, Former Cruz Azul Player?
Alemao decided to retire from playing in 2023. He is currently studying to become a manager, having already gained some initial experience in that role, and remains committed to preparing for a potential return to Cruz Azul – this time as a coach.
“I’m still young, only 36 years old. I’m studying, I’ve already completed the licenses from the Brazilian Confederation, like the B and A licenses, so I can be a coach here in Brazil. Football is in my life, in my heart, in my blood, and I will dedicate myself to continuing my studies. Who knows, one day I might coach here, grow, and maybe even reach Mexican football, and especially Cruz Azul.”
