Manuel Lapuente, Former Mexico Coach and Liga MX Legend, Dies
Mexico’s soccer community mourns the loss of Manuel Lapuente Díaz, who passed away at the age of 81. The former coach of the Mexican national team and a distinguished figure in Liga MX history, Lapuente left an enduring legacy.
Manuel Lapuente: A Statistical Legacy
Known for his iconic beret and unique temperament, Lapuente emerged as one of Mexico’s most successful coaches. His tenure included significant achievements at various clubs, including:
- Puebla: 1982-83, 1989-90
- Necaxa: 1994-95, 1995-96
- América: Verano 2002
In total, he secured five Liga MX titles along with national cup trophies, the Campeón de Campeones, and the Concachampions. His tactical acumen and discipline made him a modern strategist, constructing robust and competitive teams that defined a generation.
A Historic Coach for “El Tri”
As the head coach of the Mexican national team, Lapuente orchestrated one of its finest moments: the 1999 Confederations Cup. Under his leadership, Mexico triumphed over Brazil 4-3 in front of a crowded Estadio Azteca. Prior to this, he led the team to victory in the 1998 Gold Cup and coached Mexico during the 1998 World Cup in France, where they reached the knockout stage.
A Journey from Player to Coach
Born in Puebla on May 15, 1944, Lapuente’s soccer journey began as a player. He played for Monterrey, Necaxa, Puebla, and Atlas, earning a gold medal with the Mexican national team at the 1967 Pan American Games. Although he did not achieve league titles in his playing career, his transition to coaching was met with substantial success.
Coaching Milestones
Throughout his coaching career, Lapuente also managed prominent teams such as Tigres, Atlante, and Cruz Azul. His first championship victory was with Puebla in the 1982-83 season, a fitting start to a remarkable coaching legacy.
Summary of Achievements
| Category | Titles |
|---|---|
| Liga MX | 5 |
| National Cups | 2 |
| Campeón de Campeones | 2 |
| Concachampions | 2 |
| International Titles (as Coach) | 2 (Gold Cup, Confederations Cup) |
Manuel Lapuente’s impact on Mexican soccer is profound. His contributions as a player and a coach solidified his status as a true soccer legend in Liga MX.
