Keylor Navas Joins UNAM Pumas: Seeking New Challenges

Mexico City, Jul 25 (AP) - Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas, upon receiving an offer to play for UNAM Pumas in Mexico, turned to some familiar faces for counsel.

The Costa Rican shot-stopper reached out to his former Madrid teammate, Sergio Ramos, as well as Costa Rica's national coach, Miguel Herrera, before agreeing to a reported one-year contract with Pumas in Liga MX. This move follows a six-month period in Argentina with Newell's Old Boys.

At 38, Navas was unveiled on Thursday as the Mexican team undertakes a significant roster overhaul, aiming to end a 14-year title drought.

"I’m eager to give my all, push myself, and perform at my best on the pitch," Navas expressed. "I have the mentality to make history and win a title. I believe we can achieve these goals by working with humility."

While specifics weren't disclosed, Newell's Old Boys announced they would receive $2 million from the deal.

Ramos’ Insight on Mexico - Navas teamed up with Ramos for five seasons at Madrid, where they clinched three Champions League trophies. They reunited at Paris Saint-Germain, contributing to a Ligue 1 title in 2022.

Earlier this year, the 39-year-old Ramos joined Monterrey, a Mexican team.

“Sergio shared his experiences in Mexico with me. I know James (Rodriguez) is here playing well too," said Navas at a press briefing. "Liga MX is growing into a highly competitive league with great infrastructure, and I wanted to join a club where we can vie for titles." James Rodriguez, their former Madrid teammate for four seasons, is also playing in Mexico with Leon.

Pumas has already secured Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey, Colombian left-back Alvaro Angulo, and Ecuadorian midfielder Pedro Vite.

Guidance from Herrera - Navas also sought advice from Herrera, who had previously coached six top-tier teams in Mexico before taking on the role of Costa Rica's national team coach as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

"I conversed with Miguel because of his knowledge of the league and the club. He assured me I should sign without hesitation," Navas shared. "I'm joining a big club, and having him in the national team really aids in making such decisions."

Another motivating factor for Navas was the proximity to Central America, especially with World Cup qualifiers set to commence in September. Costa Rica, known as "Los Ticos," will face Honduras, Haiti, and Nicaragua in Group C. (AP) PDS PDS

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